Doreen Berrington/Hurst

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Doreen Emma (Ferrier) Berrington Hurst on October 20th, 2020 at the age of 95 at the Lions Prairie Manor, Portage la Prairie, MB. Mom peacefully departed this world with family at her side and surrounded by love.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Heather (Murray) McCallum; Cathy (Brian, dec.) Boivin; Glen (Carol) Berrington; Allan (Cathy) Berrington; Joanne (Mike) Sullivan; Scott (Katharine) Berrington, along with eleven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Mom was predeceased by her parents; her first husband, our father, Harold Berrington in November 1981; also by her second husband, Les Hurst in November 2010; and by her sister Marjorie Zatina in 2006.

Mom had a full and blessed life highlighted by her marriage in 1947 to the love of her life, Harold Berrington. Prior to his untimely death, they overcame obstacles and challenges together, raising a family of six children during their 34 years of a fun-loving and caring marriage. Mom had immense pride and joy for her family and her love for us was unconditional. While she worked at several jobs in her lifetime, raising her children and being the best mother was her greatest role. She was unwavering in her dedication to providing for each one of us in her tender and thoughtful ways.

Doreen had a special gift of compassion and caring and gave back to the Portage community and to those in need. She made lifelong friends and heart-filled memories with the people she helped and the hearts she touched. She was an active member of St. Mary’s Anglican Church, sang in the choir and led weekly Sunday school lessons.

Mom volunteered for Meals on Wheels and the Royal Canadian Legion. Mom made many visits over many years to seniors in care homes and hospitals, either as part of a choir or simply because she was a dear friend to many.

Born in Portage la Prairie, Doreen spent the majority of her life in Portage. During her marriage to Les, they lived briefly in Meaford, ON and Saskatoon, SK, and travelled to many parts of Canada and Ireland but her heart was always in Portage!

Doreen loved listening to music. Her lovely voice will forever resonate with her family and to anyone who heard her sing. Even in her final years, she could still sing the words to many of the songs she adored. Mom was fond of animals. There was always love in her home for family pets and the many strays that wandered into her life who needed a home.

Mom’s later life was filled with family visits across the country that brought as much joy to her as to her children and their growing families. Many special times were spent with Gramma. Doreen will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Her beautiful smile, her sharp wit and delightful sense of humour, which she maintained until her passing, will be remembered by us all.

The family would like to extend thanks and appreciation to the many staff of the Lions Prairie Manor who provided compassionate care and kind words while Doreen was a resident.

Mom, Mum, Gramma, you will be forever loved and we will always treasure our time with you and honour your memory. You truly were our “Sunshine”.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Should friends so desire, donations in memory of Doreen may be made to: Portage Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), 121 12th St NE Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 4A2 or to the Lions Prairie Manor Foundation, 24 9th St SE Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3V4.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com