JUNE 6, 1987 – FEBRUARY 17, 2024

Deirdre Maryanne McCollin passed away peacefully with her loved ones by her side at the age of 36 on February 17, 2024.

She is survived by her parents, Allison McCollin-Drakes and Bradley Drakes and fiancé, Alexander Wilson.

She is lovingly remembered by her many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Deirdre was born in Toronto, Ontario on June 6, 1987. She lived her early years in Pickering, Ontario attending St. Anthony Daniel Catholic School for her primary education. She then moved with her parents to Torrance, California where she completed her elementary and secondary education and attended Woodbury University.

Deirdre then returned to Toronto and attended Toronto Metropolitan University (Formerly Ryerson University) to complete her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology.

In November 2023, she graduated with Distinction from the University of Toronto with her Master’s in Social Work. Her hope was to work with children and youth preferably in an educational setting. Deirdre had a desire to help others who were less fortunate.

She sought out opportunities to assist both children and youth who were considered at risk and wanted to play a role in impacting their lives in a positive way.

She volunteered with Youth Justice Services with the Ontario Public Service, working with youth in conflict with the law and subsequently worked with Associated Youth Services of Peel continuing to provide services to troubled youth.

She also worked for Side by Side Access Services, a community agency providing supervised visitation for children involved in custodial disputes. Deirdre had a natural artistic and creative ability.

She developed her skills over the years and created some impressive pieces of art. Her work has been displayed in both magazines and local art exhibits in both Toronto and Durham Region. She enjoyed music, spending time watching the latest movies and television shows. She loved her family and friends and cherished the time she could spend making memories. Her smile and laugh brought warmth to all. Deirdre will be missed by many and fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or St. Michael’s Hospital would be appreciated.

Visitation will take place on Friday March 1, 2024, 4:00pm-6:00pm and on Saturday March 2, 2024, 9:30am-10:30am at the Oshawa Funeral Home located at 847 King Street West, Oshawa, Ontario. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday March 2, 2024 at 10:30am at the OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME located at 847 King Street West, Oshawa, Ontario. Reception will follow immediately after the service.