BATES, Helen 'Doreen' (nee Gallaugher) - Born in Adjala Township. Ontario, June 25, 1926, Helen Doreen Bates (nee Gallaugher) passed away peacefully on April 17, 2021 at the age of 94.
Doreen was wife of the late James Andrew Bates, mother of Sharon Penty, (David), David Bates (Cindy), and the late Dr. Wayne Bates (Peggy).
Much loved Grandma of Michael, Daniel and Rebecca Penty; Scott, Cameron, Matthew and Adam Bates; Lori and Michael Bates; and Brad and Megan Balske. Great grandma to Trinity, Caiden, James and Madelyn.
Sister to the late Alverna Greer, and Dawson Gallaugher.
Doreen will be remembered for her love of family and the joy she had in expressing that love. She could turn the simplest of events into a grand occasion. Picnics on fishing jaunts, backyard Sunday dinners on TV trays, Sunday roast beef dinners or wedding receptions in their beautiful home gardens were always occasions of elegance, with fine food, laughter and fun.
Doreen, who had a wonderful sense of fashion, sewed curtains and prom dresses and knitted baby outfits for family members. Her hand knitted outdoor sweaters for her husband Jim, were works created with love and drew many appreciative comments.
Work-related travels with her husband Jim, a mining engineer, led them to many parts of the world including, Peru, Brazil, and Australia. They lived for several years in Rio de Janeiro where Doreen learned Portuguese, enjoyed the culture and became an avid bridge player.
In later years, Doreen enjoyed walking in the evenings through Jim’s wonderful gardens, playing games of euchre with family and reminiscing about the many wonderful events of her youth and that of her children. She enjoyed watching curling on television. The excitement of the games brought back memories of her own days of curling in North Bay and the trophy she brought home at the end of the season.
Doreen’s face could easily be led to tears of laughter as she teased family members with her keen Irish wit.
Her graciousness, kindness, love and gentle ways will be sorely missed.
A private funeral service will be held at Skwarchuk Funeral Home, Bradford on Saturday, May 8th, followed by an interment at Alliston Union Cemetery. Livestreaming of the funeral service will be available for family and friends on the funeral home website.
In Doreen’s memory, donations may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation or to Southlake Regional Health Centre Foundation.
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