September 17, 1931 – March 11, 2019
Jensen, Doris Elaine Nestler – Passed away peacefully at Stedman Hospice, Brantford, ON, Monday, March 11, 2019. She will be dearly missed by her brother Peter and his wife Ruth Ann, nephew Paul Jensen (Deb) and many cousins. Predeceased by nephew Eric. Doris was a professor of biology and, for many years, associate dean of sciences for McMaster University. She kept busy with many of the things she loved doing; ceramics, raising sheep and cattle, riding horses, collecting stamps, needlepoint, and painting. More recently she researched and wrote a book on Bulbophyllum orchids. She was a twenty-five year member of the Toronto Orchid Judging Centre of the American Orchid Society. She travelled the world (France, South Africa, Malaysia, Zanzibar, China and others) judging and studying orchids. Special thanks are extended to the staff at Stedman Hospice for their outstanding care during Doris’ final days: she felt she was truly pampered. Friends will be received by the family on Tuesday, March 26th from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. for a Celebration of Doris’ Life at Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main Street, Dundas. Sharing memories of Doris will begin at 12 noon. Memorial donations for Doris to the Stedman Hospice in Brantford, would be greatly appreciated by the family.
To whom it may concern,
I never got the pleasure of meeting Doris but her reputation preceded her and I was only able to hear second hand about her love of orchids. I talked at great length to Dr. David Liscombe about orchids and all he could say was “you must meet Doris, if you want to grow orchids”. As I am just delving into my love of orchids, I planned to introduce myself to her this spring. My heart goes out to the family. The world lost a great person this week.
My condolences,
Garrett Nunn
As a newly arrived, young faculty member at McMaster University in mid 1970s, my wife and I had the privilege of knowing Doris as a colleague and as a family friend. We have fond memories of being entertained at Doris’ farm house on many occasions. We will miss her very much. May her soul rest in peace.
Dear Peter and Ruth Ann
I was very dismayed by this news, and regret that I had not been in recent contact. Please accept my sincere condolences. Doris was a wonderful neighbour and good friend to Ewen and I.
It is comforting to know that Doris felt pampered by the Stedman Hospice.
Sincerest condolences,
Betty Bayley
Dear Peter and family:
My sincere sympathy to you and the family.
I was happy that I could assist you and the family on Doris’ final journey. She was a knowledgeable kind soul. May she tend her Orchid gardens in eternity.
Sincere sympathy
Lynne Garn
Volunteer at Stedman Hospice
My condolences to the Jensen family. Doris was a friend and fellow orchid grower to my parents, Jim and Delores Brasch. I remember dad talking about Doris’ skills as an orchid grower and judge. She led a rich and full life. I saw the obituary and wanted to acknowledge your loss, as mom and dad passed away earlier this year.
–Jennifer and Katherine Brasch
Doris once said to me “if there is something you want to do badly enough, your brain will find a way.” I’ve never forgotten those words because she was right! An inspiring woman and friend if ever there was one. My sincere sympathies.
Joyce (one of the lunch bunch)
Our condolences to the Jensen Family From Troy Women’s Institute A Friend & very good neighbour She will be missed Sincerely Lois Hunt (Card Committee) and all the Ladies of our Institute
Sincere condolences to the family, Doris was a wonderful person and friend who will be long-remembered and greatly missed ! Unfortunately I couldn’t come in person on Tuesday, as I’ve been ill, but rest assured that my thoughts and prayers were with you throughout the day. All my love to all of you during this difficult time.
I was a student of Doris at MCMaster University when she was a young professor, a shining light of intelligence, encouragement, inspiration and integrity. Wanted so much to see her again to tell her how truly amazing she was and one of the outstanding people I met in my life. Sadly I didn’t get that opportunity but I have told God in my dialogues with him.