Obituary of Irene Dokkebakken

It is with great sadness to announce that Irene Matilda Dokkebakken (née Gattinger) passed away peacefully on March 12, 2023, at the age of 95 years. Irene was predeceased by her beloved husband of 55 years, Shirl; by her parents, Katherine and Frank Gattinger; siblings and their spouses, Dorothea Gattinger; Mary (Adolph) Seidler; Susan (Bill) Benaschak; Caroline (Erwin) Beilhartz; Viola (Gerald) Treen; Phyllis (John) Keller; Jacob Gattinger (who was killed in action in WWII); Henry (Ann) Gattinger; Frank (Anne) Gattinger; and William (Priscilla) Gattinger. Irene is survived by her brother John Gattinger; daughter, Maxine and family: Erin (Dan) Reed, Grace (Robert) Reed, Primrose (Brookie Erber) Reed, and Jeff McNabb. Son, Rodney (Denise) and family: Alison (John-Paul) Hawkins, Rowan, and Madden; Scott (Candice) Dokkebakken, Reese, Finley, and Porter; Chad (Chelsey) Dokkebakken, Morgan, and Payton.

Irene was born on the homestead at Bateman, SK. to Katherine (née Miller) and Frank Gattinger. On June 16^th, 1947, Irene married Shirl Dokkebakken. He was the love of her life, and they spent 55 years together until Shirl’s passing in 2002. They began their life on the Dokkebakken farm. Irene was a stay-at-home mom providing a stable and loving home. She was highly involved in the community, supporting the United Church, the Royal Canadian Legion Auxiliary, and activities at the local rink. Irene and Shirl moved to Regina in 1971 due to Shirl’s illness. They spent 20 years in Regina before moving back to Gravelbourg to be closer to family and the farm.

Irene was a very sociable person. She loved all the visits from neighbours, friends, and family. She had a beautiful yard that she was very proud of and the envy of all the town (regardless of the price of water). Shortly after Shirl passed, a wonderful lady named Angele Leblanc invited Irene to a Hospital Auxiliary meeting. Irene became a member and a year later she became the Hospital Auxiliary President for 12 years. She truly loved and enjoyed every minute.  Irene also volunteered for the Meals on Wheels program until she was 85 years old. Irene cherished spending time at the farm, driving in the combine with Rod, and driving through the countryside checking the fields and sights.

The family would like to express their thanks and gratitude to Dr. Ramlakhan, Dr. Pillay, and the staff at the St. Joseph Hospital/Foyer d’Youville for their kindness and loving care.