Doris Helen Clarke passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2009 at Cascade Hospice at the age of 84 years. She was born November 28, 1924 in Lewvan, Saskatchewan.
Doris is survived by her husband of 60 years Vic, son Dave Clarke (Shelley) of Burnaby and daughter Joan Jarman (Don) of Courtenay. She is also survived by her sister Beulah Vasseur and brother Ken Harker and many nieces and nephews. She was “Grandma” to Troy Cooper (Pam) and Deborah Jarman (Mark Winters) and “Great-Grandma” to Willow, Josh, Parker and Ty.
She was predeceased by brothers Garold (Jerry) Harker and Allard (Kelly) Harker and sister Myrle Calhoun.
Doris was the youngest child of Helen and Leonard Harker and moved to Chilliwack with her family in 1926. She grew up on Stanley Street and graduated from Chilliwack High School. In 1943 she started her first career as a reporter for the Chilliwack Progress. She married Vic in 1949 and began her second career as a wife, mother and homemaker.
Doris was a member of Chilliwack United Church for nearly 80 years. She was a Sunday School teacher for many years and a member of the Mary Mac unit of the United Church Women. She was an active community volunteer and was recognized for 25 years service with the Canadian Cancer Society.
Doris was devoted to her family, and she and Vic always welcomed others to their home and invited them to share in the bounty of their garden. She was particularly fond of flowers and maintained a large and beautiful garden. Doris loved books and reading and was an avid writer who shared decades-long friendships with her many pen-pals around the world.
Doris spent her last months at Cascade Hospice where she received compassionate, loving care. Her family gives special thanks to the medical professionals, caregivers and volunteers who eased her through her journey.
A Memorial Service will be held Friday, November 6th at 2:00 p.m. at the Chilliwack United Church, 45835 Spadina Avenue. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Chilliwack United Church or Chilliwack Hospice Society, 45360 Hodgins Ave., Chilliwack V2P 1P5.
Online condolences can be left at www.hendersonsfunerals.com