April 27, 1962 – March 12, 2022
at the age of 59 years:
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.
My sincere condolences for Marlene’s passing. I got the opportunity to work with her at SLGH. Many laughs and AHA moments. Taken way too soon xo
Had the pleasure of knowing her at the Family Centre, taken way to soon…
I will miss this beautiful soul, she was a bright light wherever she went. I remember working with her at the Family Centre, she always had a smile for everyone. So sad to hear of her passing and condolences to her family, she will be dearly missed.
We are shocked and saddened to read about Marlene’s passing. Our thoughts are with you Richard & Tanya and families. Marlene amazing smile and upbeat personality always shone. She will be forever missed and remember by many in the community for always stepping in to help and support the cause.
love Jerry & Debbie
I was shocked and so saddened to hear of Marlene’s illness and death. I worked with her at the Canadian Cancer Society. She was a beautiful soul, always ready with great ideas and eager to initiate another fund raising project. I loved her smile and enthusiasm. My sincere condolences to her family.
I’m so sad to hear of Marlenes passing. I first met her many years ago as a client of mine, and we became friends. She was always bubbly and fun. My deepest condolences to Richard and Tonya, and also to Marlenes family and friends. May she rest easyLavern
How sad to hear of Marlene’s passing. She was such a sweet person and so willing to help anyone in need. She was a valued volunteer at the Canadian Cancer Society office in Salmon Arm and was always ready to join in at all our functions like Curl for Cancer and our fund raising walks. Sincerest sympathy to your family. She will be missed.
So very sorry to hear of your moms passing Tonya and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.