Doris Mae “Birdie” Wenzel (nee Semple)

Affectionately known as Birdie, she passed away at the SBGHS- Durham site on August 25, 2019 at the grand age of 95 years.

Birdie was the daughter of the late Russell Semple and Ellen Naomi (Portway) of Brighton, Ontario.  She is survived by daughters Karen (Steve) Bartley of Calgary, Sherry (Jim) Kocher of Hanover and son Randall (Christine) Wenzel of Hanover.  Sister of Robert Semple of Chalk River, sister-in-laws Jean Semple of Brighton and Margaret Wenzel of Hanover. She will be sadly missed by her 7 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren , 2 great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Birdie was predeceased by her husband Armand “Hap” Wenzel in 1987, sisters Muriel “Toots” Smith, Evelyn Summers and brothers Edwin and Murray Semple.

Birdie was always on the go and in her retirement years, spent many hours driving patients for the cancer society as well as volunteering for the Hanover Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary and twice held the office of President.  The following are just some of the awards she received during her volunteer years as well as a multitude of thank you letters and commendations from several other organizations:

Royal Canadian Legion “Eric Winkler” Achievement Award 2007, RCL President’s award  2005, Hanover Citizen of the Year Award 1999, RCL Presidents award 1997

RCL Robert Thompson Award 1995, RCL Homemaker Award in 1990 and runner up for this award in 1989. Hap and Birdie owned and operated the Texaco Service Station in Hanover for 33 years before retiring in 1986. Many customers will remember Hap and Birdie as they always greeted customers with their friendly and efficient service always done with a smile on their faces.

Visitation will be held at Mighton Funeral Home, Hanover, on Wednesday, August 28, 2019 from 6 to 8 pm where a Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, August 29^th at 11 am. Rev. Tessica Hackshaw officiating.

Memorial donations to the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary or to the charity of your choice would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.