Dora Mae Bonner

March 16, 1921 – June 17, 2017

It is with deep sadness but with gratitude for a life well-lived, that we announce the passing of Dora Bonner on June 17, 2017 at age 96. Left to mourn the loss of Dora is her brother Ivan, and sister-in-law Eva, along with her extended family of nieces and nephews.

Dora was predeceased by her brothers David, Don, and Bob, sister Joyce, brother-in-law Ken, and sister-in-law Margaret.

Dora was born in Carman and raised on a farm in Roland, Manitoba, working on the farm alongside her parents and siblings until 1942, when she moved to Ottawa to help with the war effort. Returning to Winnipeg in 1943, she took her first employment position at Breen Motors. In 1952 she accepted the invitation of the minister of Crescent Fort Rouge United Church and became the church secretary for 35 years until her retirement on May 30, 1988.

She was an avid volunteer with many activities revolving around her church a few of which included Sunday School, Church Teas, the Preemie Program (making preemie clothing), the Holy Folders and the Canada Comfort Program (making teddy bears). She was also very actively involved for many years in Scouts Canada providing valuable leadership in various roles.

She was a devout United Church member and treated everyone in the congregation as if they were her extended family.

She had a love of photography, flowers, and nature. Dora shared these loves with her nieces and nephews many of whom developed keen interests in these as a result of her enthusiastic teaching. Dora was a professional photographer and her family appreciated the huge efforts she spent to ensure each wedding album she prepared was a cherished keepsake.

She treasured her time at her cottage (Dora Mae B. Inn) at Nutimik Lake in Manitoba’s Whiteshell Provincial Park and spent many happy hours tending and expanding her beautiful flower gardens. Dora also enjoyed hosting her many friends and relatives to show and share the beauty of the park she loved.

She had a sincere appreciation of the love, loyalty, generosity and friendship of all in her family as well as her many special friends. She was grateful for the continued love and support from her brother Ivan.

Dora was always willing to help others at any time and in any way and asked for nothing in return. Her optimism was beyond bounds and she could always be counted on to provide a big smile, a warm greeting and some cheerful conversation to lift up those around her.

A celebration of Dora’s life will take place at Crescent Fort Rouge United Church, 525 Wardlaw Avenue, Winnipeg on Monday, June 26, 2017 at 2:00pm. Interment of ashes will follow the service in the Crescent Fort Rouge Memorial Garden. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to a charity of your choice.