MECHANIC FALLS — Doreen G. Piper, 56, of Mechanic Falls passed away peacefully Sunday, June 24, surrounded by family, friends and the loving staff of Frederick Street Group Home.

She was born Nov. 26, 1961, daughter of Frank and Velora Piper. She attended Madison Street School in Auburn, and the adult education program in Mechanic Falls, earning her GED in 1996. Despite having Down syndrome, she was able to achieve in her lifetime what was never thought possible.

Her achievements and accomplishments are many. She was a Special Olympian, participating in summer and winter events in local and international competitions. She won several medals, one awarded by Mohamed Ali and Cathy Rigby at the International Games in Brockport, N.Y. She was an all-around athlete in many different sports. Most recently, in the fall of 2017, she was awarded her honorary black belt from Phoenix Karate Academy in Auburn. She also participated in many equestrian events in Skowhegan.

Doreen loved to travel and visited many different states, Canada and Paris. When she was not traveling, she held several janitorial jobs through Pathways and Pottle Works. She always gave her all. In her younger years, she twirled baton with the Golden Arrows, was a Girl Scout from Brownies to Cadet and took gymnastics and dance lessons. Doreen loved a good party and was always included. She always had a twinkle in her eye and a big smile on her face. Most of all, she was an adored daughter, sister and aunt.

There are so many people who had an influence in her life. Special heartfelt appreciation to Tammy and Norm Dubois, Robert (Ribeye) Dubois, Nate and Natasha Dubois, Rhonda Lausier and their families, who were truly her second family. Also, the staff of Momentum and the Progress Center who have always been there for her, the staff of Frederick Street Group Home who took such good care of her the last several months and lastly, to all of her friends and family who were part of her life and helped her to be the amazing person she was.

Doreen is survived by her parents Frank and Velora Piper of Mechanic Falls; sister, Darlene Boyd, and husband, Jeff, of Mechanic Falls; nieces Amanda Emery and husband, Anthony, and Allison Bennett and husband, Kevin, of Mechanic Falls; great-nephew, Alex Emery; and great-nieces Lilliana and Nora Bennett and Adriene Emery.

She was predeceased by great-grandparents Lula and Clifford Edwards, and grandparents Walter and Florine Perry and Annette Clifford.

Online condolences may be shared with her family at www.chandlerfunerals.com.

Doreen G. Piper