Dave and Doreen

Dave and Doreen have been members of St. Matthew’s Parish since 1982. Married in 1981, they raised their six children in the faith, with all of them attending Cloverdale Catholic School and Holy Cross High School. Over the years, they have been deeply involved in both parish and school life, serving in various ministries, including CCD (catechism), RCIA, volunteer coordination, and the Holy Cross Education Committee. Their connection to St. Matthew’s has been a guiding force in shaping their family and strengthening their spiritual journey.

Since 2019, they have coordinated the Marriage Program at St. Matthew’s Parish. Marriage has been one of the greatest blessings in their lives, and they have found immense joy in sharing their experience with couples preparing for marriage through the Witness to Love mentorship program.

They love to travel, especially throughout Europe, where they have visited many significant pilgrimage sites that have enriched and deepened their faith.

Now, with all six of their children married, they are blessed with 14 beautiful grandchildren. Spending time with them and being part of their lives brings them immense joy.

About Dave

Dave retired as a business owner in 2020, passing the company on to their eldest son, Chris. Since 1982, he has been actively involved in parish life, starting with leading a team to set up chairs for Mass in the High School gym. His dedication to serving the Church has remained steadfast through the years.

About Doreen

Doreen converted to Catholicism before their wedding. Her faith grew as their family grew and was fortunate to stay home and raise their six children. Managing a large, active family required organization, a sense of humor, and the unwavering support of a loving husband. It wasn’t always easy, but they relied on the graces of their marriage to navigate the challenges together.

Advice for Couples Preparing for Marriage

Our love has grown deeper over the years, and that is largely because we have made our decisions through the lens of faith, trusting that God will always provide. If we were to summarize our priorities in marriage, they would be:

God– First

Each Other – Second

Our Children – Third

Work – Fourth

Above all, remember that love is willing the good of the other. Marriage is not just about companionship—it is about helping one another get to Heaven.

Favorite Bible Verse

“Do the good that needs to be done, so that further good can be accomplished.”

— Father Joseph Hattie, OMI