DOREEN KATHERINE MURRAY (TAYLOR)

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DOREEN KATHERINE MURRAY

Doreen Katherine Murray (nee Taylor), aged 75, passed away unexpectedly on June 27, 2021, less than six weeks following her beloved "Muzzie's" passing.
She is survived by her three children, T'ai Pu, Zana (Kevin) and Suzie, and five grandchildren: Amélie, Elliott, Shambé, Akili and Satya. Doreen was predeceased by her dad, mom, sister and husband.
Doreen was born January 12, 1946 to Helen (nee Sweeney) and John Taylor in Winnipeg, MB. She often spoke of her upbringing: the immense love for her father, who passed away when she was 14 years old, the ineffable spirit of the women in her life (her nana, mom and sister), and the laughter of friends as they watched "I Love Lucy".
Her best friend was her sister Margaret, who throughout years was a constant companion alongside with Margie's husband, Don Bozek - they gathered most every weekend. Doreen dearly loved Margie and Don's children, John Bozek (Liz) and Lisa Maletic (Garth).
Doreen graduated from St. Mary's Academy and won a scholarship to the University of Manitoba (St. Paul College) at the age of 16, majoring in Economics (a rarity for women in 1962). Though receiving many job offers, she chose to accept employment with Canada Manpower in order to stay in Winnipeg so that she could be close to her family and future husband, Don (affectionately known as "Muzzie" - and she was his "Pudgie").
Doreen was a creator at heart - art and music were a huge part of her life. She was also a progressive soul - one of her family's favourite stories is how she insisted that Don, prior to marriage, sign a contract that she shall never iron. Once their family grew and it was agreed she would be a stay at home mom, she insisted on her own salary - because it was valuable work.
Doreen was a gentle soul, but so strong. In April of 1974, her husband suffered a devastating spinal injury, which resulted in the loss of the use of his legs. With two children, just 20 and three months old (T'ai and Zana), she supported and loved Don despite the challenges just ahead and in the future. They continued to add to their family, welcoming Suzie, and went on to enjoy full family adventures - camping wild in a Zodiac boat, house boating, Caliper Lake weekends and many other holiday excursions.
Doreen was an incredible cook - the feasts she created on what became weekly Friday dinners would match any five-star restaurant, sparing no expense of ingredients or time. She loved holidays - epic Halloween parties, making Christmas magical, and all celebrations big and small were not just observed but rejoiced.
Later in life, Pudgie's incredible love of animals became more and more special, and they all loved her back. She had many pets with whom she felt company and comfort, too many to name. She also had wild friends: porcupines, woodpeckers, squirrels. No animal was left unfed, unwatered and unnamed by Doreen.
Our Pudgie will be quietly remembered with family in Kananaskis at a later time when it is comfortable to gather.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 03, 2021