It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Doreen Morita, who passed away on July 17, 2026, at Hamilton General Hospital, in her 90th year, following complications from a stroke.

Born in Vancouver, Doreen was the eldest daughter of the late Jinnosuke (John) and Eiko Morita. She was predeceased by sister, JoAnne, and is lovingly remembered by her sisters, Nancy and Darlene, and brother, George. She will be fondly remembered by nephews, Kraft, Robert, and Daniel, and niece, Miko.

During the Second World War, Doreen and her family experienced the hardship of internment at the Tashme Incarceration camp in British Columbia, an experience that shaped her life and strengthened her appreciation for community, kindness, and perseverance. A remarkable three-time Cancer survivor, she faced each challenge with extraordinary courage, determination, and grace, inspiring all who knew her.

Doreen dedicated her life to caring for and supporting others. It was reflected in her work at Earl’s Court Residential Group Home in Toronto, where she made a meaningful difference in the lives of those she served. A devoted member of the Japanese United Church and Japanese Cultural Society of Hamilton, Doreen was deeply committed to strengthening her community. She dedicated many years to volunteering, providing resident support at Macassa Lodge in Hamilton and at Momiji Health Care Society in Scarborough. Her compassion, generosity, and commitment to helping others were recognized when she was honoured as the City of Hamilton’s 2023 Senior of the Year for Diversity and Culture.

Doreen’s volunteer contributions extended far beyond individual acts of kindness. She participated in Japanese cultural events, sharing her heritage and bringing people together through community celebrations. She volunteered with the Meals on Wheels program, helping to support those in need, and during the pandemic she provided care and support to Japanese seniors, offering companionship and assistance during a particularly challenging time.

Doreen had a joyful and outgoing nature. She had a unique sense of humor and a gift for making people feel valued. She was blessed with many friendships she made throughout her life, such as friends at the Westmount swim club, and the senior’s club at the Hamilton Samaj Hindu temple. Doreen also had a love of travel and enjoyed exploring new places, both independently and with family, creating many treasured memories along the way. While working in Lethbridge, Alberta she formed a deep friendship with renowned Canadian photographer and artist Roloff Beny. This connection inspired her appreciation for creativity, culture, and the arts.

Doreen will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, generosity, and the love she shared with her family, friends, and community. Her positive outlook, caring heart, and dedication to helping others touched the lives of many. Through her work, volunteerism, cultural involvement, and friendships, she left a legacy of compassion, inclusion, and joy that will continue to inspire those who knew her, and she will be deeply missed by all whose lives she enriched.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the physicians, nurses, and staff at the Juravinski Hospital, Hamilton General, and special thanks to those in the Stroke Rehabilitation Unit, for the care and compassion they provided during Doreen’s final days. The family would like to thank Scott McNie and Linda Nishimura for their unwavering support and kindness through this difficult time

A peaceful ending to a life of hard work and service to others.

Family and friends will be received at M. A. Clark’s Funeral home on Thursday, July 23 from 2pm – 4pm. A second visitation will be held at 10 am – noon on Friday, July 24, with a funeral service immediately after, followed by a reception.

The family sincerely appreciates the support and condolences received during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Japanese United Church, or a charity of your choice.