DORKIN, Marion Jean “Marnie”

July 29, 1940 — October 20, 2024

Marion Jean Dorkin, known to most as Marnie, was born in the idyllic town of Summerland, BC, in 1940. She was grateful to have been raised in a loving home by her beloved parents, Walter and Bridge Bleasdale along with her brothers Bill, Bob and sister, Noreen. Graduating from Summerland High School, she ran off to the big city of Penticton to work for BC Social Services, where she met this tall, handsome RCMP constable with a big smile and caring eyes. Ken and Marnie’s love story began in 1960 in Penticton with their marriage, followed by the birth of Debbi in 1962 and then Ray in 1964.

She knew and accepted that Ken’s career would involve being transferred every few years and so it began, first to Dawson Creek where Janice was born in 1969 and then on to Chase for a year. Marnie loved that time, as she was able to be closer to her brother and sister and the beloved cabin on the Little Shuswap Lake that was the cornerstone of her family. No matter where they lived, most of every summer was spent in those early years with the Bleadale family, enjoying time together on the lake.

Next was time in Surrey and North Delta, then back up north to Mackenzie, south to Nanaimo and ultimately retiring in Salmon Arm. All along the way, they made strong friendships that continue to this day. She worked as a secretary, once the kids were old enough, at the Royal Bank, BC Parks and then back to BC Social Services. But her real life’s work was her children and then along came the grandchildren, and then the great-grandchildren and even great-great-grandchildren. She was dedicated to her family and opened her arms and heart always with patience, tolerance and complete acceptance.

Marnie loved music, especially playing the piano. In retirement, she took great pride in being the pianist for the Order of the Royal Purple in Salmon Arm. She shared her love of music with her family, especially enjoying teaching her granddaughter in after-school piano lessons. She also loved her sports, especially her beloved Toronto Blue Jays and Vancouver Canucks. She cheered faithfully, in good times and bad, as she always believed in the underdog, both in sports and life.

Ken and Marnie’s retirement years were filled initially with travel, be it on cruises or exploring Canada and Alaska in their motorhome. But ultimately, they settled into summers at Mabel Lake Resort and Campground. They delighted in their years helping with the firewood, the BBQ’s and shuttling visitors back and forth to the golf course. Marnie appreciated the outdoors, the bonfires, the sing-alongs and the people. Many children fondly remember her as their “Mabel Lake Grandma”. She enjoyed the last couple of years in Kelowna at Hawthorn Park, being closer to family. We are grateful for the care and consideration that has been offered from Hawthorn Park as well as Kelowna General Hospital, 6 West for taking such good care of all of us in her final days.

Marnie leaves behind her devoted husband Ken; her three children, Debbi, Ray, and Janice; nine grandchildren; and an ever-growing collection of great and great-great-grandchildren.

A beautiful, kind soul that was tougher and stronger than most knew. She leaves a legacy of love, good humour, quiet strength and joy for the simple things in life that we should never forget like the giggle of a child, the sound of music and a loving hug. Her gentle presence will be missed by all who knew her, but we are fairly certain that she has found a comfortable spot on the next part of her journey, where the piano is always in tune and the Blue Jays always win.

In lieu of flowers, Marnie would likely suggest you do something kind for someone in need. Or make a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation (www.heartandstroke.ca) if you’re feeling particularly generous.

A Celebration of Life, with Kim Bergstrom as Celebrant, will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 10:00 am (PST), at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC. 

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Service Details

The service for DORKIN, Marion Jean “Marnie” is scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 10:00 am (PST). Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

2020 Springfield Road Kelowna, BC

Phone:

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Special Requests:

None.

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