It is with great sadness that the family of Dorothy Bates (nee Webb) announces her passing on Wednesday, October 8, at age 95. Predeceased by John, her loving husband of 67 years.
Left to mourn her passing are her daughters, Christine, Joanne (Tom) and Karen (Bryan); grandchildren, Jacqueline (Blair), Caralynn (James), Cameron (Lauren), Matthew (Rachel), Alyssa and Michael; great-grandchildren, Tobias, Payton, Rowan, Weston, Linken and Calvin; niece Kerri; and extended family and dear friends.
Dorothy was born in Calne, Wiltshire, England. She immigrated to Canada and followed her passion of caring for children by becoming a Nanny for the Fisher family, all of whom she shared a special bond with. Her love of children flourished as a scout leader – Akela, for a North Toronto troop.
She met the love of her life, John, at one of her other jobs with DRML in Downsview. They married and Dorothy’s focus shifted to raising their family, while working part-time in various jobs.
Dorothy was an active member of the Willowdale community where the family grew up. She was a block parent, a school lunch monitor at the public school, and a volunteer in the community baton club. Dorothy was a talented baker, cook, knitter, and crocheter. The staple at many family dinners was her famous lemon meringue, apple, and pumpkin pies. Family was blessed with receiving her knitted sweaters, socks, and crocheted afghan blankets, demonstrating her talents.
After retirement, John and Dorothy moved to Muskoka. Dorothy became active in the community by volunteering at the curling club, at the local school breakfast club program, and at school events. A quietly competitive person, Dorothy enjoyed curling, darts, crosswords, cards, and scrabble.
When it was time to leave Muskoka, John and Dorothy chose a retirement home in Barrie, making it easier for all their children to visit. After John’s passing, Dorothy received invaluable support from the staff at the Waterford and the VON team, for which her family is deeply grateful. The staff often spoke of the warmth and positivity Dorothy brought to those around her during her care. Stoic to the end, she will be missed tremendously by her family.
In accordance with Dorothy’s wishes, no funeral will be held, and she recently asked that there be no tears, only fond memories shared! In that spirit, please raise a glass of your favorite red wine or gin and tonic in celebration of a strong lady whose life was devoted to caring for others, her community, and her family. Words of condolence may be left for the family at www.peacefultransition.ca
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