Doreen Powell

Throughout her life, Doreen always strove to foster a community of love.

In 1962, Doreen was enjoying the summer at Weko Beach when a handsome young man she had known from high school asked her on a date. She married Ronald Powell just five months later on December1, 1962 in Mishawaka. Together they settled down and started a family of their own.

Doreen devoted her early years to raising her children and creating a loving home. She and Ron enjoyed planning and tending their gardens and preserving the fruits of their labor by canning their favorite specialties.

Doreen had a lifelong fascination with flowers and gardening. Ron lovingly built numerous flower beds where she delighted in growing unique and exquisite flowers, including many varieties of Irises. During this time, Doreen also discovered a passion for crafting and became well known for creating custom Santas. Each one was thoughtfully designed to reflect the personality of the person receiving it, with every detail carefully chosen.

In 2006, Ron and Doreen moved to Granger, where they continued their love of gardening. After purchasing their home, they transformed the property into a stunning park-like setting with winding paths, flowering trees, and beautiful gardens. Doreen’s favorite place was on the porch with her cat, Lilly, on her lap and Ron beside her, overlooking the gardens while watching the birds, squirrels, and deer that regularly gathered there.

Family was the center of Doreen’s life. She never missed a game, concert, play, or recital. She happily sewed Halloween costumes, doll clothes, and outfits whenever they were needed. She loved her children deeply, her grandchildren fiercely, and her husband passionately.

Doreen was preceded in death by her beloved son, Christopher.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Ronald; her children, Ronald (Cynthia) Powell, Christian (Deborah) Powell, and Jean (Troy) Farkas; her grandchildren, Mitchell (Deanna) Powell, Hannah, Robert, Walt, and William Watts; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

No services are scheduled. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the St. Joseph County Humane Society.

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