March 12, 2022
It is with great sadness the family of Marlene Denise Pyper (nee Doerkson) announce her passing in Salmon Arm, BC, on March 12, 2022. Marlene was born in Grande Prairie, Alberta to Hank and Florence Doerkson. She was born 10 and 12 years after her 2 older sisters who were like little mothers to her during her early childhood. She was 4 years old when she and her family moved from Grande Prairie, Alberta to Salmon Arm BC.
Salmon Arm would be Marlene's home from this time on. There she raised her daughter Tonja, and for many years it was the two of them. Marlene was a kind, loving and selfless mother who shared an incredible bond of friendship, support and love with her daughter throughout her life. Marlene was also a devoted grandmother who was loved by her three granddaughters.
Marlene and Richard, her husband of 20 years, enjoyed camping and boating trips with their friends. Over the years, Marlene worked at Ready's Drug Store, Pharmasave, Shuswap Lake General Hospital and finally her dream job at Shuswap Family Resource Centre. She was a volunteer at the Canadian Cancer Society Office in Salmon Arm for many years.
Marlene was loved for her warmth, her humour and her kindness. She was a good friend to many including her lifelong friend, Missy Blair, and a loved partner, Richard. She leaves behind her many happy memories of love and strength and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Marlene will be sadly missed by her husband, Richard, daughter Tonja (Matt)Workman, mother, Florence (Doerkson) Abney, sisters, Glenda Jones and Lois (Ron)Schindel, three granddaughters, Madison, Morgan and Mackenzie. She was predeceased by her father, Hank Doerkson in 1982.
The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at Vancouver General Hospital and Shuswap Lake General. A special thank you to Dr. Keith Hepburn. Thank you to the family and friends who spent time with Marlene and supported her during her battle, it was graciously appreciated.
A private celebration of Marlene's life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Condolences and memories can be shared through Marlene's obituary at www.fischersfuneralservices.com
Fischers Funeral Services