Ed and Doreen both lived in Nanaimo, but didn’t meet until they were both living at Berwick On The Lake. Doreen moved in there three years ago and Ed shortly after that.
Asked how they met, they laughingly said, “Over pots, that is pots with an s, not pot” They both share a love of gardening and were pleased to join the Garden Club. They grew cherry tomatoes last year, and are looking forward to growing strawberries, all for anyone to pick and eat.
They said that living in a community such as Berwick helps foster getting to know people, especially with all that is offered. Doreen enjoyed travelling, but thought those days were over until she met Ed. One of their favourite bus trips was to Telegraph Cove, before the fire. Another of their shared interests is playing cards and Ed says they play six days per week. Asked who is the better card player, they laughed and said it depends on who gets the cards; anyone who plays cards knows that no matter how good you are, if the right cards don’t come up, it doesn’t matter.
They stress that they do nothing to take away from the past and both still display memorabilia of their late spouses but that this is a new beginning; a very wise way to look at life. They both know that their late spouses were a vital part of who they and their families are, but are embracing this unexpected, new love. Doreen has three sons, six grandchildren and four great grandchildren and Ed has two daughters, two grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Asked what their families think of their engagement and they both say that all are very supportive.
When asked what Ed loves about Doreen, he says her happiness, her smile and sense of humour. Doreen loves that Ed is kind, thoughtful and that they have fun together. It is easy to sense the love they share as they often exchange looks and smiles and laughs. Ed said one of his favourite moments was when Doreen agreed to have lunch with him. Six months in, they said they knew it was love! They are excited that the future means they each have someone there to support them.
It was on November 27th, at the Berwick on The Lake 25th anniversary, when Ed made it official with his proposal and her beautiful ring. They will be moving in together in February – the below image is both of them admiring their future home through the window.
Their advice for others on Valentine’s Day is to “Go for it. You are capable of loving and caring at any age and it enhances life.”
After their Baptist church wedding, the reception will be at Berwick on the Lake.
Hearty congratulations to a lovely couple, may they enjoy many more happy, loving years together.
Written by Chris Neeter
Chris (Christine) is an exceptional writer and proud resident of Berwick Parksville. With a passion for storytelling and a knack for capturing the essence of everyday life, Chris crafts engaging, thought-provoking resident feature stories that resonate with our readers. When not writing, Chris is one of the original members of the drama group, Berwick Parksville Players, and can be found leading several and participating in other Active Living programs at Berwick Parksville and enjoying the beautiful community of Parksville.