METCALF, Doreen Isabel Metcalf

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the death of our mother, Doreen Isabel Metcalf, nee Van Camp.

Born March 30, 1931, passed away at Marigold Hospice on June 23, 2026.

Doreen was one of three children born to loving parents Gordon and Marion Van Camp, and raised on the family farm. She is preceded in death by older brother Earl and younger sister Una. Also predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Donald John Metcalf; and by their son Dale.

Doreen was mother to five sons: David (Judy), Dean (Liz), Dale, Alan (Debbie), and Carl (Darlene).

Grandmother to James, Erin, Darryl, Jessica, Mitchell, Madison, Tyler and Haley. Great grandmother to Jayden, Allysa, Ian and Grace.

Doreen and Don raised their boys on the Metcalf family farm. Over the farming years managing their Holstein Dairy herd, they faced many challenges but also created great memories until the farm was expropriated for the Darlington Nuclear Power Plant in 1969. They moved to a one acre lot on Baseline Road, and in 1979 purchased a cottage on Crystal Lake, where Mom put her talent as carpenter, plumber etc to work. We have all made good memories at the family cottage, and it was one of Doreen’s favourite places.

Doreen’s many talents were put to good use for the home, herself, the family, and grandkids. She was an excellent sewer, knitter, decorator and gardener. She also took up oil painting and created some beautiful artwork. Doreen was also a quilter and we all have quilts and afghans at our homes.

She also enjoyed watching her boys and grandchildren plays sports. She was an avid fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays.

Doreen was a founding member of the Baseline Community Centre, volunteered at the Second Chance Store, St. Vincent’s Kitchen Oshawa, and was a member of the UCW at Ebenezer United Church.

Doreen lived a wonderful life and was an inspiration to many.

Special thanks to Ontario Health at Home, for the compassionate help provided by Angela the coordinator; and to Wen and Elisha; the nurses who treated Doreen almost daily at her home for over a year.

Thank you also to the PSW’s, Paramedics, Bowmanville Hospital Emergency Care, Dr. Osborne and the wonderful staff at Marigold Hospice. In keeping with Doreen’s wishes, there will be a private graveside family service at Ebenezer Cemetery.

Donations to the Bowmanville Hospital Foundation and Marigold Hospice would be greatly appreciated.