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BORN
1932
DIED
2023
Doreen SEARS Obituary
The daughter of Mary (née AvRuskin) and Herman Laywine, she grew up on Davisville Avenue, attended North Toronto Collegiate and graduated from the University of Toronto with a B.A. She married architect Henry Sears in 1951 and enjoyed their busy life together until his death in 2003. She pursued a 30-year career as a social worker at Surrey Place, a centre for people with developmental disabilities and complex needs. Doreen loved a good party and a good meal as an ever-welcoming hostess both in the city and at "the farm" in the Beaver Valley.
Doreen lived in her apartment until the end, brought on by a stroke in late January. She died at St. Michael's Hospital surrounded by the love of her sons Alan and Joel, grandson Jed, partner David Croft, and sister Annabelle Goodman. She also leaves her brother Charles Laywine, son-in-law Ken Leclair and daughter-in-law Kate Taylor, as well as many friends who counted themselves cherished members of Doreen's extended family.
The family would like to thank the caregivers who were so warm and supportive to Doreen over the last year: Beverley, Bibi, Dominique, Evangela, Karen, Pamela, Shashika, and Lesley who coordinated the Senior Helpers Toronto team.
Donations in Doreen's memory may be made to Let's Grow, a Toronto day program for adults with disabilities, at letsgrowhub.com. For details on a memorial service, go to MountPleasantGroup.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Doreen SEARS
6 Entries
Pegatha Taylor
February 21, 2023
Thanks so much to the family for the beautiful service today. I wasn't able to speak to all of Doreen's immediate family members and to David, but my own memories of Doreen -- her grace, her sunny smile, her athleticism, her intellectual curiosity and her cooking wizardry -- were reflected in your anecdotes and memories. It was a fitting tribute to a great person.
Leslie Parker
February 16, 2023
I lived down the street from Doreen´s family as a child. I remember Doreen as kind and humorous, and to this day can clearly recall her vibrant presence.
I want to extend my sincere condolences to Doreen´s family.
Rivka Pollack (Goldlist) and family
February 15, 2023
Auntie Deenie was always filled with so much love, life, and laughter.
I always loved seeing and taking to her.
Josie, Henning and Greta
February 14, 2023
Our family will remember Doreen as an authentically kind person. We feel fortunate to have known her.
Our deepest condolences to the family.
Rob Huang
February 14, 2023
Doreen was an amazing soul. It was our pleasure taking care of Doreen and being with her during her last journey. Our entire Senior Helpers Toronto team will miss her. Please let us know if the family needs any support. Doreen will always be in our hearts.
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