Doreen Elizabeth Romancik

Doreen Elizabeth (Saunders) Romancik, a cherished mother, companion, daughter, and sister, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, in Manchester, CT, due to natural causes. Born on March 26, 1978, in Stafford Springs, CT, Doreen lived a life marked by kindness, thoughtfulness, and a passionate spirit that touched the hearts of everyone she knew.

Doreen was the beloved daughter of George Saunders and Patricia Saunders. She grew up in a loving family alongside her brothers, Ken and Ward Saunders, and her sister, Rebecca Saunders. Her family later expanded to include her cherished companion, Nicholas O'Connor, and her adored daughters, Skyla, Ariel, and Haley Romancik. Doreen was a beacon of light in her family, her warm presence a constant source of joy and comfort.

She attended Manchester High School, where her love for learning and helping others flourished. Despite the challenges, she persevered to earn her GED and went on to study mortuary science, a testament to her resilience and determination. Doreen's early work experience at KinderCare revealed her innate ability to connect with children, especially those with autism, a trait that she carried with her throughout her life. In addition to her Ged, Doreen also attended the College of New Rochelle in New York.

Doreen's passion for creativity shone brightly in her hobbies. She had a unique talent for jewelry making and resin art, which she lovingly sold at local Craft Fairs. Her artistic flair was matched by her entrepreneurial spirit when she worked at Time Machine in Manchester, CT, where she thrived as a buyer for the front toy department. Her keen eye for detail and dedication to her craft were evident in every project she undertook.

Beyond her professional life, Doreen had a wide array of interests that brought her immense joy. She was a lover of music, finding solace and inspiration in the melodies of Jim Morrison and the Grateful Dead. She kept a special place in her heart for Bob Marley, whose music offered comfort. A homemaker at heart, Doreen took great pleasure in baking, decorating for the holidays, and creating a warm and inviting space for her family and friends. Her love for tattoos reflected her appreciation for self-expression, while her care for animals, including her fish, turtles, and cats, showcased her nurturing soul.

A voracious reader and writer, Doreen found solace in poetry, and her fascination with crime shows and forensics spoke to her curious and investigative nature. These interests were more than pastimes; they were extensions of her character, allowing her to explore the depths of the human experience and share her insights with those around her.

Doreen's life was one of deep connections and enduring relationships. Her uncle Alan and his wife Elyse Saunders, aunt Gayle and her husband Dann Mayo, and her nephews Riley and Cal Saunders, along with her cousins Kristin and Jason, Scott and Jaime, Eric and Heidi Mayo, and Kevin Mayo, will fondly remember her for the love and laughter she brought into their lives.

The words that best describe Doreen are kind, thoughtful, and passionate. She approached every aspect of life with a generous heart and an unwavering commitment to those she loved. Her legacy will live on in the cherished memories of her family, the art she created, and the countless lives she enriched.

Doreen's passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. She lived a life full of purpose and joy, and for that, she will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

Calling Hours will be held on Saturday, October 25th at Manchester Funeral Home, located at 142 East Center Street, Manchester CT from 2:30pm till 4pm with a Memorial Service from 4pm till 4:30pm. To leave an online condolence please visit www.manchesterfuneralhome.com