Doreen Trusler, 96

Doreen Margaret Trusler of Polson passed away peacefully during the early morning hours of March 26, 2025, in Ronan.

She was born June 24, 1928, on the prairies of Saskatchewan to Edgar and Pearl Ament along with her twin sister, Dorothy. The girls joined older brother Lloyd.

The twins formed a close, strong, life-long bond. Best friends, confidants, and travel partners, together they experienced nearly 97 years of tumultuous events such as World War II and continuous advancements including color television, jet airplanes, computers, space travel, and of course the microwave oven, which Doreen came to use daily.

Doreen and Dorothy attended Holy Cross Hospital School of Nursing in Calgary together, graduating in 1949. They were both proud and dedicated to decades-long careers in nursing, keeping in touch with classmates, attending reunions, and continuing to learn in the ever-changing field of healthcare.

Doreen immigrated to the United States with husband Vern and her two children, Lynn and Paddy, in April 1955, settling in Polson. Soon, the family took residence on 5th Street in Polson and added a son, Scott, to the family. Doreen called 5th St. home for 66 years.

Being a nurse in a small, rural community she had an opportunity to be acquainted with many residents, watching families grow, developing some close friendships, and helping others when she was able. She was always active, loved the outdoors, animals (including her companion dog Patches), and travel.

There were years of participation in the women’s bowling league, many camping and fishing trips, and travel throughout the U.S. and Canada plus two trips to Europe, and a visit to Mexico. There was almost always an annual trip to Canada to visit her parents, other relatives, and of course, Lloyd and Dorothy.

The holidays were a special time for her, the family gatherings, decorations, the holiday meals, and the exchange of gifts were meaningful and times of joy. We often joked that she started holiday planning a year or more in advance. She was a testament on how to make the most of modest means.

Doreen is survived by her twin sister, Dorothy; her three children, Lynn, Paddy and Scott; four grandchildren, Sean, Kate, Drew and Justin; six great-grandchildren, and seven great-great grandchildren. Doreen was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Pearl, and her brother, Lloyd.

No public memorial services are planned; those who knew her are encouraged to simply cast their eyes on a nearby forest, mountain, stream, or lake and listen to the birdsongs she loved and remember her long life of caring for others and joy of living. In time, Doreen will be reunited with her beloved sister Dorothy in Canada so they may share eternity together.

The family asks that memorials in her name be made to the Polson Animal Shelter.

Messages of condolence may be shared with the family online at lakefuneralhomeandcremtion.com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.