Doris Louise O'Connor, 91 years, quietly passed away on Wednesday, September 3, 2014 with her loving family by her side.Doris was born on February 3, 1923 to William and Laura Barrett in South Gillies, Ontario. On October 28, 1944, Doris married her best friend James Patrick O'Connor. Together they raised three wonderful children Shirley, Brian and Brenda in the family home on Balsam Street where they resided until 2006. There, she hosted many family birthdays, anniversaries, Christmases and other occasions, happy to have her family around her.Doris was a compassionate tender hearted person, who dedicated most of her life to taking care of others. Being the eldest daughter in a family of 13 she acquired the qualities that would endear her to everyone she would encounter during her long life, through her work, her many friendships and her large family.She found her career as a nurse's aide at Dawson Court most rewarding. She was proud to have worked there for 25 years and was often fondly remembered by co-workers and residents long after her retirement.The Walford became their new home after Jim's health declined in 2006 and Doris was no longer able to care for him herself. After he passed away a few months later her new friends and family there provided her with comfort and friendship.Doris is lovingly remembered and survived be her children Shirley (Allan) Smith, Brian (Wanda) O'Connor, Brenda (Tauno) Karhu, grandchildren Darlene (Adam) Baryluk, Chris (Chris) Cano, Barb (Larry) Sawchuk, Kelly O'Connor (Jason) of London,ON, Michael O'Connor (Kristen), Rod Karhu (Tracy), Stephen (Corinne) Karhu, Ian (Dayna) Karhu, great-grandchildren Matthew and Lauren Baryluk, Tyler and Dylan Karhu and Logan and Elliot Karhu, siblings Cyril (Alice) Barrett, Irene (Eric) Fox, Vera Van Riper, Hazel (Herb) Kaus, Winnie Byington (John), Sharon (Harry) Holowach, Everett Barrett (Sylvia), in-laws Leonard Felbel, Velma O'Connor as well as many nieces and nephews.She was predeceased by her loving husband James O'Connor, siblings Thelma Felbel, Jean (Ray) Sitch, Leta (Peter) Cherwonick, Ester (Kurt) Stajkowski, Ralph (Audrey) Barrett, in-laws Jack Van Riper, Dennis O'Connor, Millie (Millman) Holmes, Kay (Walter) Faithful, Vi (Joe) Berlinquette, Helen (Izzy) Vigliarolo. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 8, 2014 in the Chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre 499 North Cumberland Street. A visitation for family and friends will begin one hour prior to the service.Doris loved flowers and had contributed to many worthy causes. However, what was most important to her was family. Nothing made her happier than a phone call or a visit from someone she loved. So, on her behalf we ask that you take the time to pick up the telephone and call or drop in for a visit with a loved one. Don't forget a hug, a kiss and a big "I Love You". You never know if it will be your last.On-line Condolences may be offered
atwww.harbourviewfuneral.ca"
Published by The Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal on Sep. 6, 2014.