The Doreen and John McConnell Fund celebrates the life, achievements, interests and public se1vice of Doreen McConnell. This donor advised fund allows Doreen’s husband, John, and their children, Mary Ann, Betty Jane and John Jr., to direct funds annually to charities that reflect the many interests of Doreen, who passed away on July 31, 2007 at the age of 80.
Doreen, daughter of James and Alma Ratcliffe of Regina, obtained a Bachelor of Arts (English) from the University of Saskatchewan. She worked as an executive secreta1y for the Government of Saskatchewan and as an advertising copywriter in Vancouver and Regina, before marrying John and devoting herself to her family. Doreen was gracious, gentle, loving and kind, encouraging everyone to make good decisions, yet respecting differences and opinions. She exposed her children to new and broadening experiences in Regina, Michigan, Ottawa and Saskatoon. Through fifty years of marriage, John says,
“Doreen was my rock of support. She contributed a lot to my entire life and to my decisions.”
Doreen appreciated and pursued the arts. She found joy and satisfaction in singing, playing music, sewing, art and creativity. She sang for many years in the University of Saskatchewan’s Hallelujah Chorus, United Church choirs, and played piano. She was a superb seamstress, enjoyed creative crafts and pursued watercolour painting. Doreen had a wonderful sense of humour and loved to laugh and have fun. It is little wonder that her favourite films were comedies.
Doreen is lovingly remembered as a woman of integrity, who was undaunted by obstacles and always expected the best in people around her. She never complained and quietly continued on life’s path while challenged with colitis, an ileostomy and congestive heart failure. Doreen McConnell – an ideal partner, mother and grandmother is lovingly remembered for devoting her life to her family and community.