Doris Dobson

On January 2, Doris Dobson passed away peacefully after a brief illness. Doris saw many changes in the world during her 93 years. She lived through the Great Depression and later the war years, both of which shaped her view of life and humanity, in a positive sense. She remained frugal yet generous throughout her life and understood the difference between want and need in a way that people from that era can appreciate. Doris grew up in Toronto and spent her summers in Muskoka working at the Bala Bay Inn and dancing to the big bands at Dunn’s Pavilion, despite her mother's disapproval. As a single woman she traveled extensively from Alaska to Mexico and throughout Europe at a time when this was considered foolhardy at best. She became a kindergarten teacher in Toronto and then in Ottawa where she moved in the 1950's with her late husband Gordon. In 1956 Gordon found a job in the federal civil service and they moved to a modest apartment in the Sandy Hill area with little money but no shortage of enthusiasm. Two years later, they purchased their first and only home where they raised two boys and where she continued to live all her life. She gave up teaching to become a full-time mother but continued to volunteer weekly at the Riverside hospital and with local senior citizen organizations. This latter activity transitioned into a second career developing recreation programs for senior citizens. Her easy-going demeanor and engaging personality proved equally suited to working with the elderly as it did with schoolchildren and she was loved by all who met her.

Doris is survived by two sons Ian and Evan, 6 grandchildren, her sister Mary, niece Kathy and nephew Neil. She reveled in their accomplishments no matter how small and comforted them in their setbacks. She loved them all unconditionally. Doris was quick to laugh and smiled effortlessly. She conversed freely and enthusiastically with strangers and found good in everyone. She was a prolific writer of "Thank You" notes and never let an act of kindness go unnoticed. She read voraciously on a wide range of topics and followed Canadian politics closely. Her views were decidedly left-of-centre and she embraced the changing demographic of her neighbourhood with openness and optimism.

Despite her advanced age, Doris lived independently in her home of 60 years until the very end. This was only made possible through the support of friends, family and neighbours whose contributions cannot be over-estimated. She gave selflessly to her community and it in turn gave back to her. We thank you all. Our thanks also go out to the neurology team at the Ottawa Civic hospital who made a sincere effort to care for an elderly woman who was faced with a devastating diagnosis. Despite her poor prognosis, you displayed compassion and attentiveness throughout her short stay. And finally, to the staff and volunteers at May Court hospice we express our utmost gratitude for the tenderness and attention you gave to our mother. Your small acts of kindness amazed us daily and will never be forgotten.

Doris Muriel Dobson lived a long, productive and happy life. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, a reliable friend and good person. One cannot ask for more than that.

A Funeral Service will be held in the chapel of McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home, 1411 Hunt Club Road (at Albion Road) on Saturday, January 6, 2017 at 11 am. A gathering to follow in the reception center of the funeral home from 12-2 pm. In lieu of flowers we encourage friends to support May Court Hospice (www.hospicecareottawa.ca)