Doreen Fern Baraniuk

Doreen’s early life experiences on the farm shaped who she became. A strong work ethic started early for Mom, milking the cows before walking to and after returning home from Hazeldale school. The farm animals were her companions as an only child. She loved nature, horses— especially her horse Nellie, the sheep, the cows, and the huge gardens that she helped her mother and grandparents keep. Fond memories of the farm always stayed with Doreen. We can never truly appreciate all the hardwork she did as a young girl, and everything she experienced during those times.

After high school graduation, Doreen lived and worked in Edmonton before moving back to Calgary where she worked for the Oil and Gas Conservation Board. Doreen met George at Penley’s Dance Hall in Calgary, they married in 1959 and raised four children together. Throughout the years, Doreen would also work at George’s Insurance Agency.

Doreen was a very good cook, she was very humble, calling them simple meals—they were delicious meals mom. We grew up on homemade baking, canning, and fresh vegetables from our large garden. She was also an excellent seamstress, she sewed many of her own and our family’s clothes.  Again, mom was always very modest in saying it was basic sewing. 

Doreen was very green and forward thinking. She was recycling, reusing, and repurposing before it become commonplace. Shaped by growing up on the farm with few amenities, she never wanted to waste or throw away anything.

With George, Doreen travelled the world and saw many countries. They enjoyed many trips to Arizona during the winter months, travelled to Alaska and across Canada, all in their motorhome. Many memorable years were spent camping with our family and friends. Time at the cabin in Windermere was precious. Doreen never rested, always tending to the yard, trees and watering.

Alongside George, Doreen square danced, participated in the opening ceremonies of the 1988 Winter Olympics, volunteered at her church, and was always available to help with babysitting her grandchildren. Doreen was a gentle soul, giving, loving, quite natured, stoic, strong, and never complaining.

We are heartbroken, empty, and lost that Mom had to leave us so soon after Dad. We thank all her friends and church family who have supported us over the year.

Doreen, preceded by George, leaves behind her children; Brad (Bev) Baraniuk, Paul (Carolyn) Baraniuk, Janine (Mario) Vespa, Brent Baraniuk. Her grandchildren; Taylor (Megan), Mark (Whitney), Reid, Sarah-Jayne, and Stephanie Baraniuk. Andrew, Noah, Michaela and Chad Vespa. As well as her great grandchildren; Ellie and Briggs Baraniuk.

Funeral Service will be held at Southwood United Church (10690 Elbow Dr SW) on July 17, 2019 at 11:00am. Family and Friends are invited to share stories and memories over lunch following the service. 

 If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Calgary Humane Society (4455 110 Avenue SE, Calgary, AB T2C 2T7; 403-723-6050; https://www.calgaryhumane.ca/donate/). 

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