June 1, 2021
Doreen Veach, age 86, died peacefully at home in Nanaimo, BC on June 1, 2021 from complications of Parkinson's disease.
Doreen grew up on a farm outside London, Ontario and attended a one room school. She was an excellent student who went on to earn a degree in Chemistry at Western University—not something that many women did in 1957. Her chemistry degree led to a career working first in the lab at Dow Chemical in Sarnia, and later as a teacher at Lambton College.
It was in Sarnia that Doreen met Hugh, whom she married in 1964. They raised their three children in Sarnia and later followed them west to Vancouver Island during their retirement.
We remember Doreen for her sly sense of humour, competitive spirit, determination, and great pride in her family. She enjoyed tennis, golf, dancing, and bridge, but was especially competitive when playing badminton and accumulated many trophies.
Her six grandsons all have very fond memories of playing cards and board games with their grandma. Doreen was also a keen gardener and enjoyed travelling. She and Hugh went on trips with their friends and had their luggage stolen in many exotic faraway places.
Doreen lived with Parkinson's disease for 25 years, but never complained or grew despondent. Her positive attitude was a wonderful inspiration to those who knew her well.
The family is sincerely grateful for the tremendous support and love that Doreen and Hugh have received from Brenda Link over the past four years. She made a world of difference to their quality of life as Doreen's Parkinson's progressed.
Doreen was the beloved wife of Hugh Veach, cherished mother to Eric (Luanne), Heather (Gerry) and Linda (Mike) and devoted grandmother to Nigel, Blake, Shawn, Malcolm, Kyle and Ben. Doreen will also be missed by her dear sister, Glenna (Dave) and mischievous brother, Murray (Gayle).
The immediate family will remember Doreen at a memorial service in Nanaimo. If friends and family would like to honour Doreen, please donate to Pacific Parkinson's Research Institute in lieu of flowers.