Doreen Elizabeth Willsey

In Loving Memory of Doreen Elizabeth “Gargar” Willsey (née Bray)

It is with profound sadness and much love that we announce the peaceful passing of Doreen Elizabeth “Gargar” Willsey at the age of 90, at Spencer Care Centre, in the early morning hours of Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Doreen was the beloved wife of the late Stan and loving mother of Susan, Nancy, and Bob (Mary-Anne) Willsey. She was a cherished grandmother to Elizabeth, Audrey, Stephanie, and John Willsey, each of whom held a very special place in her heart.

Raised on a farm near Neepawa, Manitoba, Doreen’s early years were rooted in the traditions of Prairie life. She was an outstanding baseball player as a young woman, and it was there in Neepawa that she met Stan.

Over the years, Doreen and Stan made their homes in The Pas, Winnipeg, and Edmonton before making their way east to Toronto in 1967. After raising their children, Doreen spent almost twenty years working in housewares at The Bay, first at Fairview Mall and later at the Bloor and Yonge location. In 1983, she and Stan moved to Orillia and co-founded Nancy’s Bakery, Mariposa Market, and Apple Annie’s.

Doreen was an adventurous traveller who saw the world on horseback, by bicycle, and by barge. She rode horses through the Rocky Mountains, cycled through Nova Scotia and Poland, and took a barge trip through Holland.

Doreen also valued the fine arts, culture including opera, ballet, and theatre, and often enjoyed such performances in the company of her close friends Barb and Diane. She was a devoted reader, especially of Canadian authors, and an avid listener of CBC Radio.

Doreen was a talented seamstress who sewed clothes for all her children, and for all their Barbies as well. She was also a terrific cook, known for her potato pancakes, perogies, and kapusta, John’s favourite chocolate coffee cake, and the best apple pie. For Susan’s birthdays, she always made her favourite: liver and onions.

Doreen and Stan shared a love of golf, curling, and especially the summers spent at their trailer on Buckhorn Lake. It was there that they enjoyed lakeside living, good company, and the many lasting friendships they made along the way. Doreen also built many dear friendships of her own through her own activities.

Doreen was an extremely devoted grandparent, and her encouragement and support meant a great deal to her grandchildren, from Friday afternoons taking Audrey, Stephanie, and Elizabeth horseback riding to supporting John’s achievement as a competitive curler.

Doreen was an animal lover, especially of dogs and horses, and will now be joining her beloved pets George, Dolly, and Lucas. She is survived by her elderly cat Phoefee, who is now part of Susan’s household.

Doreen also had meticulous insight and wit, topped off with a dry sense of humour. From prairie girl to renaissance woman, Doreen set a wonderful example for her family and friends, and it was impossible not to be inspired by her zest for life.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the special teams at Spencer House, Victoria House, and Sundial Retirement Home for the kindness, compassion, and care they provided Doreen.

Doreen will be remembered with love and affection by her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.mundellfuneralhome.com