Obituary of Doreen Anne Hatch

HATCH: Doreen Ann Hatch (née Lewis) of Brandon, MB, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2010 at the Assiniboine Centre, in her 83rd year. Doreen was born December 14, 1926 in Brandon, the second daughter of Arthur and Susan Lewis. Mom received her early schooling at a rural school, until the family moved to Brandon in 1936, and there she completed high school. In 1948, she entered nurse's training at Brandon General Hospital, and graduated in the class of 1950. She was appointed head nurse of the pediatrics ward, which, at the time was a separate facility south of the hospital's maternity ward. Doreen married Mel Hatch on October 13, 1951. They lived in Brandon for a time, before moving to Virden where Mel became the Imperial Oil agent. It was during this time in Virden that their two sons were born. In 1958, the family had the opportunity to return to Brandon, with Mel taking over the Brandon Imperial Oil agency. With a young family to look after, Doreen chose to be a stay-at-home mom. Yet, despite the workload of full-time motherhood, she managed to find the time and energy to become involved in sports. Mom took up golfing as her summer activity, and curling in the winter - both of which she enjoyed immensely. Mom and Dad also loved their travelling, oftentimes getting away from the winter cold to spend some time in Arizona or California. Mom continued with her golf and curling right up to last year, and in recent years also enjoyed playing bridge, and bowling. Doreen was predeceased by her husband Mel in 1993. She was also predeceased by her father Arthur, her mother Susan, and by her sister Isobel Cameron. She is survived by sons Craig (Kim), and Brian, grandchildren Christopher and Ashley, and by great-grandson Carson. Also survived by sisters Marg George (Parksville, BC) and Geri MacArthur (Brandon) and numerous nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place, and at Mom's request, there will be a private family burial. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Westman Dreams for Kids Foundation Inc., #2-37-11th Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 4J2. "We hold you close within our hearts and there you will remain to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again"