Doreen Marie Ash, age 59, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away on November 25, 2025, at Fair Oaks Rehabilitation and Care Center in South Beloit, Illinois, following a long period of declining health. She will be laid to rest with a private family burial in the Coleharbor Cemetery, Coleharbor, ND, in the spring of 2026.

Doreen was born at Bismarck Hospital in Bismarck, North Dakota, and grew up on the family farm south of Riverdale, along the Missouri River. Her childhood was shaped by open fields, river sunsets, and a deep love of animals. She adored every creature on the farm, especially her cats, dogs, birds, fish, horse, gerbils, and even her turtles.

A proud alumna of Riverdale High School, Class of 1985, Doreen was active in girls’ basketball and cheerleading. She made local history by scoring the very first 3-point basket for Riverdale High School when the 3-point rule was officially adopted. After graduation, she attended UND Williston, where she earned her Associate of Arts degree.

Doreen then followed her passion for travel to Minneapolis, where she enrolled in McConnell Travel School and trained to become an airline reservation agent. She began her career with United Airlines in March 1988, first in New York and later in Chicago, which became her home. She loved talking about United, its aircraft, and the many services the airline offered. Helping passengers, especially during weather disruptions, was one of her great joys. Her coworkers became lifelong friends, and she cherished the memories, laughter, and camaraderie they shared.

Chicago also brought her the love of her life. Doreen met her husband, Edward Saba, in a grocery store while they were both reaching for the butter. He asked her to join him for coffee, and the rest became their beautiful story. They were married on September 21st, 1996, in Riverdale, North Dakota.

Doreen enjoyed the travel perks of her United career until her health began to decline, but her enthusiasm never faded. She and Ed loved watching the Chicago Blackhawks and other local sports teams together. She also found joy in cooking, often sending family photos of new recipes she perfected. A talented painter and artist, Doreen appreciated beauty wherever she found it, whether in a brushstroke, a handmade craft, or the creativity of others.

Doreen had a generous heart and cared deeply for her family and friends, both near and far. She remained devoted to the people she loved, staying connected through calls, recipes, memories, and kindness.

She is survived by her husband, Edward Saba; her brother Rob (Kate) Ash; nephews Sam and Evan Ash; and her mother Carol Ash. She is preceded in death by her father, Robert Roy Ash, and her grandparents William & Gertrude Rickner and John & Dorothy Ash.

Her life was full of love, laughter, resilience, and warmth. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Memorial are preferred to Coleharbor Cemetery in memory of Doreen.