It is with great sorrow that the family of Dorothy Dulude announces her peaceful passing on June 24, 2023, with family by her side.
Dorothy was born on November 5th, 1937, the 6th of 8 children, in Port Arthur, Ontario, to John and Madeline Swanson. Taking the opportunity to work for a living, Dorothy moved to Marathon, Ontario at just 16 years of age. It was there that she met the love of her life, John. They married in 1955, and settled in Marathon to raise their family, before moving to Thunder Bay in 1994. John predeceased Dorothy in 2018, after 63 years of marriage.
Dorothy’s inborn wisdom and generous spirit touched the lives of many. Her door was kept open to welcome her family and friends. A natural born caretaker, one could always count on Dorothy for a cup of tea, a home cooked meal, and a willing, non-judgmental ear to just listen. Often, Dorothy offered a safe place to stay “until they got on their feet”. Dorothy went above and beyond to help others, kindly extending her family home to foster children with special needs, so they could attend the Caroline McMorland school in Marathon.
When Dorothy wasn’t busy helping others, she was busy making her own dreams come true. Her many adventures had her watching the “Great Gretzky” in live action, riding the gondola to the top of the mountain in Banff, and climbing the rocks of Peggy’s Cove, to name just a few. She could also be found exploring the outdoors, as she had a love for camping. Her downtime was for watching movies or reading the latest mystery novel. She also loved to knit beautiful sweaters and mittens for her family and friends. Dorothy possessed a great love for animals and took in many strays. She most always had a dog by her side when out walking. Those who knew Dorothy will remember her beautiful smile and her warm heart.
Dorothy’s greatest love in life was for her family. She will be very much missed by her four children, Brian (Janet), Jeannie Koivu (Eric), John (Brenda) and Pauline Allan (Robert).
Dorothy will always be fondly remembered by her nine grandchildren as being the “fun grandma”, the one who played with them in the sandbox, ran with them for the ice cream truck, owned all the Disney movies, and read the Harry Potter series. Her home was a place to gather, a place where family came together to play a game of cards, or enjoy her baking around the table. She took great interest in the lives of her grandchildren and stayed involved with them as much as she could, even enjoying the Facetimes with those who lived far away. Dorothy has also left behind 12 great-grandchildren, and she was always happy to see them. Her love for her family was unsurpassed. Dorothy is also survived by her sister, Phyllis, and many nieces and nephews.
The family gives many thanks to the support staff at the P.R. Cook apartments for their commitment in enriching our mother’s life the past five years. She was very happy under your care and thrived well in her apartment with your assistance. We also give a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Feldstein of St. Joseph’s hospital for your gentle, compassionate, care of our mother during her time on the 4th floor. We could not have asked for a better doctor. To Sherri and the hospice team of nurses, you are all simply the best and we will be forever grateful for your care of our mother. Also, to Father Blazek and Theresa for your spiritual care, we thank you for the comfort you brought to our mother.
As per Dorothy’s wishes, a private family celebration of life will take place. If friends so wish, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Thunder Bay Veterinary Hospital under the account for “Desi’s Heart Rescue” to support veterinary expenses for rescues, in honor of Dorothy’s love for animals and the rescue cat she cared for. Alternatively, donations may be made, in memory of Dorothy, to St Joseph’s Hospice Care in Thunder Bay, so they can continue to provide the same compassionate care to others that they gave to Dorothy.
