Dorothy Harrison

Mom was born in Hull, Yorkshire, England, the youngest of 5. She shared thousands of happy memories of her parents and siblings with us over the years. This despite growing up in the midst of World War II, an early childhood injury that resulted in a lifetime of strong glasses, relearning how to walk after 6 months in hospital with scarlet fever at age 8, and many other hardships.

In 1953 she married Lawrence, and in 1957 moved to Canada, flying what must have felt like across the world with 2 toddlers on her own, as Dad had arrived earlier to set things up for them. For almost 70 years she complained about Winnipeg winters, but she made it her home, and ours.

Trained as a stenographer in England, Mom had a variety of jobs here but spent most of her working life at The Bay Optical, which she enjoyed very much. Her post-retirement job was as Nana to her 4 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, while continuing to be the guiding light and moral compass for her children.

She truly was the British archetype – she didn’t suffer fools, she respected hard work, she liked a good laugh, and she wasn’t the best cook. She loved dogs and shared her home and heart with them as far back as the early 1960s – at least 8 over the years. Her yard and garden, including the apple tree that provided an endless supply she shared with everyone (usually after peeling and paring them), were a source of both peace and pride. She delighted in gift-giving, always including a card signed “From Mom” with each present. She was everything to us.

Mom passed away peacefully at 94 on January 30, a cold winter day. She’d probably finally had enough of the weather, but she left behind an enduring warmth felt by everyone who knew her. She is survived by her children Carl (Lynn), Graham, Therasa (Terry), and Cameron; grandchildren Sara (Colin), Erin, Iain and Lisa (Hugh); and great-grandsons Finley and Charlie. She will be missed by many people, especially her oldest friend Sharon Brown, and family in England. She was predeceased by her parents Charles and Amy Dick, her siblings, and our father Lawrence.

Mom spent the last 5 and a half years in care, and we are grateful for the warmth and respect she always received from the staff at Shaftesbury Park and Golden Door.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 21 at 11 am at All Saints Anglican Church, 521 Broadway at Osborne, with reception to follow.