DOREEN PATRICIA KOESTER (nee CHIRO) August 18, 1942 - June 8, 2014

Mom passed away peacefully after a courageous and inspirational battle with cancer at Moose Jaw Union Hospital with her family by her side. Doreen was born on the family farm in the Elm Springs district and was raised on the family homestead 4 miles north east of Wood Mountain. She attended Five Mile Creek and Ambassador schools and later took a secretarial course in Assiniboia. She worked in St. Victor and Regina for a short period of time. The majority of her career was as an Assistant Secretary-Treasurer, Assistant Administrator and Administrator for the L.I.D. and R.M. of Old Post #43 from November 4, 1964 to her retirement November 30, 2001. She married Ronnie Koester on October 17, 1964. They made their first home in the village of Wood Mountain and later moved to the family farm. Mom enjoyed retirement life in Moose Jaw from October 2004 to present. Predeceased by her parents George and Fannie Chiro, husband Ronnie in 1986, father-in-law and mother- in-law, Loin and Dolly Koester, sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Marilyn and George Munteanu and brother-in-law Harvey Fritz. She is survived by children Shawn (Julie) of Saskatoon, Parker of Swift Current, Carlene (Chris, Katy and Joel) of Regina, three grandchildren Brett, Cole and Rayna, and sister Marie Fritz of Moose Jaw. Doreen was a genuine, compassionate, caring individual who was actively involved in her church and community. Her faith and belief was strong; meeting life's challenges with never a complaint. She was a diligent and conscientious employee with a keen sense of detail. She loved her family equally and unconditionally, always wanting the best for all. Mom was an outstanding cook, host and great gardener. She liked to “dress her best”, knit, play cards and board games as well as sing in choirs. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 12, 2014 at St. Andrew’s United Church, 60 Athabasca St E, Moose Jaw, SK with Reverend Jim Tenford officiating. Interment will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Assiniboia. In lieu of flowers donations in Doreen's memory can be made to Ronald MacDonald House Saskatchewan online at www.rmh.sk.ca or by mail to 1011 University Dr. Saskatoon, SK, S7N 0K4. Arrangements are entrusted to Parkview Funeral Chapel. Blair & Kelly Scott, Funeral Directors. (306) 694-5500. Please sign our online book of condolences at www.parkviewfuneralchapel.ca.