Magdolna "Magdi" Dormer

With deep love and respect, we celebrate the life of Magdolna Dormer, affectionately known as Magdi, Mom, Auntie or Nana, who was welcomed into the arms of her Saviour after a life filled with quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering love.

Magdolna Sztana was born on June 19, 1926, in Hosszúpályi, Hungary, the fourth of nine children in a humble one-room family home. When her father came home after a long day of work, he wanted peace and quiet. So, Magdi and her siblings were not allowed to talk, even though there were nine children in the house.

Life was not easy, yet even in those early days, Magdi’sresilience and gentle spirit began to shine. As her parents struggled to care for their large family, Magdi was sent to live with her grandmother. It was there that she first learned the skills that would serve her so well throughout her life—cooking, sewing, and the art of caring for others.

As a young woman, she worked as a schoolteacher in Hungary, instilling knowledge and kindness wherever she went. It was during this time that a chance meeting with a Canadian man named Henry Dormer, Sr. would forever change the course of her life. After a courtship carried out across oceans through handwritten letters, Magdi immigrated to Canada in the spring 1966, and she and Henry were married on November 5, 1966, beginning a new chapter of life together in Winnipeg.

Arriving in a new country with no English, Magdi faced the challenge with characteristic determination. She attended classes and tirelessly practiced reading, writing, and speaking English —never content to do things halfway. Her discipline, patience, and quiet perseverance were hallmarks of her character.

At home on “the farm,” Magdi’s hands were never idle. She was a tireless homemaker, lovingly tending her garden, preparing delicious Hungarian meals, sewing with remarkable precision, and welcoming family and friends with open arms. Her Hungarian goulash, homemade pastas, and rich desserts were not only meals but memories made with love.

Yet it was her presence—not just her talents—that made Magdi unforgettable. Her calm demeanor and others-oriented spirit brought comfort to all who knew her. She lived simply but purposefully, often saying, “I’m not perfect, but I always try my best.” Even in her later years, when asked if she wanted coffee in the afternoon, she would gently reply, “I like my sleep more than I like my coffee,” a simple reminder of her thoughtful discipline.

Magdi never spoke harshly or held grudges, choosing instead to see the best in people. One of her memorable pieces of advice was “find one positive and more positives will come.” Her faith was deep and unwavering. She loved the Lord with all her heart, worshipping Him in song and in spirit, and her life was a reflection of His love and grace. Even in the face of hardships, she remained grateful, never complaining, always trusting that God would never leave or forsake her.

To her family, Magdi was a faithful wife, a praying Nana, a beloved Auntie, and an example of how to live with grace and compassion. She taught us more by her life than words ever could, and her legacy will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

She was predeceased by her husband Henry, by seven of her siblings in Europe, and her stepchildren Anne (Neil), (Susie), Margaret (Jake), and John (Mary) in Canada. She is lovingly remembered by her beloved sister, Anoosh, in Hungary; her cherished nieces and nephews in Europe; her stepchildren, Henry and Ernie (Darlene); and her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren in Canada.

Special thanks to the kind and dedicated staff at Bethania for their compassionate care in Magdi’s final season of life.

We grieve her loss deeply, yet we rejoice knowing she is at peace—no more hardships, but surrounded by the joy and glory of her Heavenly home.

Magdi, Mom, Auntie, Nana—your life was a testimony of quiet strength, tender faith, and enduring love. We miss you dearly, but we celebrate your total healing and the eternal peace you now know.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." – Matthew 25:21