Obituary of Gwendolyn Albertha Dooley

It is with profound sadness that the children of Gwendolyn Albertha Dooley (nee Snelgrove) announce her passing on October 20, 2023 at the age of 84.

Born in Grates Cove NFLD.  Daughter of the late Nelson Cecil Snelgrove and Dulcie Belle Snelgrove.  Mother of Carol (Steve), Donnie, Wendy, Cathy (Terry) and Bill (Leeanne) as well as Doug and Jim sons from another mother and name sake Gwen. Predeceased by her son Glenn (Virginia) and grandson Chad.  Gwen was also predeceased by the love of her life Douglas Arthur Dooley.  Gwen was an adored grandmother to 16 grandchildren and cherished Nanny to 20 great-grandchildren.

Gwen leaves behind her brothers and sisters, Bram (Wilma), Jack (Lou) Barb, Jim (Lilianne), Ross (Casey), Donna (Ian) predeceased by Sarah, Rick, Ruby, Lee, and Shirley. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and many cherished friends.

Gwen was the owner operator of New Durham Optical in Oshawa from 1991 to 2014 until she retired.  She made a name for herself and was well respected in the optical industry.  She treated her customers like family and was very thankful for their support of a small independent business.

Gwen was a longtime member of the Oshawa Moose Lodge.  She was a very active member and took great pride in organizing and running the Euchre league on Monday, Wednesday & Thursday.

The family wishes to thank St. Elizabeth and her PSW’s Sue, Teresa, Melissa and Suzanne.  Your care of our mother was exceptional to say the least.  We would also like to express our grateful gratitude to Dr. Vincent Ho and the Partners in Nursing staff, her nurses Theresa, Andrea, Jill, Jane, Nancy, Emily, Chelvy, Dillon and Juliette.

We cannot express our gratitude enough for your compassion and respect for our mother.  It truly was exceptional care.  Our mother knew how blessed she was to have you all care for her and was very thankful always.

Thank you to the number of healthcare providers she had over the years.  I’m sure she left lasting memories.

In lieu of flowers donations to The Salvation Army Whitby Community Church or Back Door Mission for the Relief of Poverty would be appreciated.

Visitation will be held at NORTHCUTT ELLIOTT FUNERAL HOME, 53 Division Street North Bowmanville on Friday November 10^th from 12 – 1 pm, A Memorial Service will follow in the Chapel at 1 pm.