Dorothy May Wessbecher

May 16, 1944 – April 10, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Dorothy May Wessbecher (née Van Laere) announces her sudden but peaceful passing at Lakeridge Health Oshawa on Friday, April 10, 2026, in her 82nd year, surrounded by the love of her family and close friends.

Dorothy was born in Windsor, Ontario, to the late Homer Van Laere and the late Della Myers, and was raised in Port Hope, where she later married and raised her two children. She eventually made her home in Oshawa, where she worked in security at the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station. Dorothy will be remembered for her kind heart, warm smile, and the cheerful way she greeted others with a simple “hello” or wished them well with a sincere “have a good night.” These small gestures reflected the caring and thoughtful person she was.

Dorothy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her son, Michael (Jane Watt); her daughter, Lori (Jeffrey B. Meyers); her cherished granddaughter, Rachel; her brother, Donald Van Laere; her sister-in-law, Barbara Michaud; her brother-in-law, Alberico “Albert” Furia; and her long-time partner and close friend, Doug Hatherly of Courtice. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, all of whom will hold her memory close with love and affection.

She was predeceased by her parents, Homer Van Laere, her mother Della Myers, her beloved partner of 20 years, Robert “Bob” Johnston; his daughter, Bobbie-Jean; her brother, Remi Van Laere, Sr.; her sister, Stella Decoste; and her sisters-in-law, Sharon Munday and Mary Ann Van Laere.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Dorothy’s Life on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Officers’ Mess, Colonel R.S. McLaughlin Armoury, 53 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, Ontario, L1G 4R9.

All are welcome. Dress is casual but respectful.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dorothy’s memory to a charity of your choice.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace.

-- Requiem aeternam

A private interment will take place at a later date in Arnprior, Ontario. Date to be determined.