DOREEN MAE SOPOTIUK (PACKER)

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DOREEN MAE SOPOTIUK (nee PACKER) Passed away peacefully with family by her side on Saturday, Oct-ober 12, 2002. Predeceased by her husband of more than 48 years, Joe, on Sept-ember 28, 2001. Survived by her children, Geri (Ian), Laura, Owen (Kristin), Alison (Heng), Tony, and Dallas (Scott), and by her four grandchildren whom she adored. She will also be sadly missed by her sisters, Marjory (Bill), Shirley, Joyce and Ardythe (Bob) and by her brother David (Donna). Doreen was born in Winnipeg to Dave and Irene Packer on December 17, 1931. While visiting her sister in Lac du Bonnet she met Joe, the love of her life, and they were married on January 22, 1953 at Augustine United Church in Winnipeg. After several moves the family returned to Winnipeg where they owned and operated Springmans Super Shopper until 1976 when they relocated to Victoria. Soon after she began working at CIBC in Mayfair Mall. Doreen had a life-long passion for both learning and art. She successfully combined the two when she obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Victoria in 1991, graduating together with her son, Owen. As a contemporary artist she was well respected. Her art has been widely exhibited and featured both in magazine and on television. Doreen was also a strong believer in social justice and she volunteered for many years with the Global Village Store in Victoria. She had a passionate love of opera and was an avid reader. She enjoyed nothing better than a good cup of coffee or a glass of wine along with lively and intelligent conversation with friends. Doreen also had a strong sense of honour, integrity and dignity. A heartfelt thank you to Doreens special "Sisters", who cared both for and about her and who always treated her with dignity and respect. Thank you also to her friends who loyally kept coming to visit her and making her days a little brighter. No service by request. A reception to honour Doreen was held at her daughters home in Victoria. In lieu of flowers a donation to the charity of ones choice would be appreciated. "We cant all be exceptional, [but] what we do ... is important." Care Funeral Services 2676 Wilfert Rd., Victoria, BC V9B 4Z2

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 09, 2002