DOAK, Shirley Mae

June 5, 1923 - April 5, 2011

A creative woman, dedicated wife, loving grandmother and entertaining friend died April 5, 2011 from a short and courageous battle with cancer. Shirley is pre-deceased by her husband ‘Jim’ (James) Crosland Doak. She is survived by sons Russell (Christine), Graeme (Mary), Crosland (Sarah) and grandchildren Michael (Ashley), Eric (Nancy), Lauren and Fraser.

Diagnosed with terminal cancer only one month ago, she accepted her fate with dignity and humour. Although she succumbed to cancer it was macular degeneration that was her biggest challenge over the past 10 years. She faced the challenge of blindness with confidence and persistence. Her strength and positive attitude will be remembered always. Shirley had the grace of royalty and the style of a model, traits she displayed both in her political and her fashionable social life.

Shirley’s love of fashion, design and art was threaded throughout a life devoted to her family and to Jim’s passion for politics and his dedication to the legal profession. When her children were young, Shirley still had time to become quite the painter. She had a colourful life: she was awarded the ‘Best Hatted Woman in Manitoba’, she entertained Canadian Prime Ministers and she played golf in the dark. Over the years, the two of them were active members at Kelowna, Quail Ridge and Gallagher’s Canyon Golf & Country Clubs, Shirley and Jim defied the effects of age. They remained active, social and on many occasion were referred as the “best dressed”, “most hip” and even “the coolest seniors ever”.

Jim and Shirley resided in Winnipeg in the 40’s & 50’s, Virden, Manitoba in the 60’s, Kelowna from 1970 to 2005 and Victoria and Vancouver until her death. It was joked that Jim and Shirley changed houses and cars more than the seasons.

Our sincere thanks to the staff at Tapestry Residences at UBC, and the staff and doctors at University of British Columbia and Vancouver General Hospitals. Shirley has requested a humble family celebration of her life with good food and quality wine. Her ashes will be reunited with Jim at his resting place in Kelowna.

In lieu of flowers your donation to the CNIB or the SPCA are welcome.

• To the Doak family,
  
  I was so very sorry to hear about your Mother. I have worked at Salloum Doak now Doak Shirreff since 1974 and have kept in touch with your Mother over the years. I married one of your father's law firm partners, Grant Hardwick when I was very young and your Mother was so kind to me, always encouraging in one way or another. We hosted a firm summer party at our home about 5 years ago and your parents flew out to Kelowna for the event. Your father spoke about the beginnings of the firm and your Mother spoke humourously about "living with your father". It was a great day. Your family is in our thoughts. Debbie and Grant Hardwick Apr 8, 2011
• To the Doak Family,
  
  Please accept our sincere condolences - it was with such sadness we read of Shirley's passing.
  Memories came flooding back! We first met Shirley and Jim at the Law Firm of Gies Salloum Doak, as it was then called, back in about 1971. It was immediately apparent they were both very unique and wonderful individuals!
  
  Jim gave me good advice in my beginning law career, and Shirley was always there in a positive and supportive role. After many happy years working and socializing together, we kept in regular touch when they made their move to the coast.
  
  Jim & Shirley both made an indelible mark wherever they were. We will remember them both with fondness forever.
  
  Grant & Hilary Shirreff Apr 11, 2011
• Our world has lost an awesome woman! From my childhood days in Virden to my adult years in Kelowna your mom/grandma was my idol.
  
  My thoughts are with you.
  
  Coreen (Bridgett) Fowler Apr 11, 2011

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