It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Dorothy Florence Thomson of Elkhorn, MB. Beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who passed away at the age of 78 years old, with family by her side, on April 16, 2015 in Regina, SK.
Dorothy Florence was born February 9, 1937, the only child to James and Florence Woodcock of Killarney, MB. Dorothy spent her childhood in Killarney, before pursuing a career in teaching which would turn out to be a lifelong passion that formed many lifelong friendships. Dorothy was teaching at Kelvin, near Portage La Prairie, when she met her better half Robert Thomson. Bob and Dorothy were married in August 1959.
From their marriage they had four children; Robert Dale, Jamie Joanne, Kimberly Anne and Darren Blair. Bob and Dorothy moved around quite a bit in the beginning of their marriage for Bob’s work. In 1963 Bob and Dorothy moved to Cromer, MB and then moved to Elkhorn in the spring of 1969. Dorothy took substitute teaching jobs in Elkhorn before becoming the first teacher/principal at Plainview Colony School in 1972.
Bob and Dorothy loved to travel! They enjoyed traveling to Branson, Missouri, attending many music festivals over the years. Dorothy’s love for music was evident as she rarely missed any musical events. Dorothy also enjoyed traveling to BC in the summer to spend time with her Uncle Wilfred and Aunt Elsie, and often stopping in for a visit with Bill & Elaine Montgomery. Dorothy always enjoyed fi nding time to attend an air show, where her cousin Bill was performing as she always fondly talked of her time spent with Bill and Judy. Dorothy enjoyed a simple life, always there to lend a hand but never expecting anything in return.
One of Dorothy’s most treasured possessions was her time spent with her family. Dorothy spent many hours following her grandchildren; watching them skate, play hockey, and curl. She always enjoyed hearing about any accomplishments, whether big or small, as she was always proud of them.
Dorothy was a life-time member of the Elkhorn Royal Purple, holding various positions within the organization. Dorothy was also a member of the Retired Teachers Association and enjoyed spending time with friends both old and new. Dorothy retired from teaching in 1998.
Dorothy enjoyed spending time outside in her garden, and working in her flower beds was always an enjoyment for Dorothy. Dorothy always enjoyed doing puzzles and watching her favourite T.V. shows. She loved animals, especially cats, and enjoyed spending time with her Siamese cat.
Dorothy always had a smile on her face and loved a good laugh even if it were at her own expense. Her laughter, her smile, and all the memories that have been created with Dorothy will live on forever in the hearts of her family and friends.
Dorothy leaves to mourn; her husband of 55 years Robert Thomson; daughter Jamie (Bill), grandchildren April and Billy Jr.; daughter Kim (Wes), grandchildren Blair (Kristine) and great-grandchild Isabella; and granddaughter McKenzie; sister-in law Elaine (Bryan) Kramble and their family; cousin Bill (Judy) Carter and their family; and her Aunt Elsie Woodcock and family, as well as many other extended family, friends and neighbours.
Dorothy is predeceased by her parents James and Florence Woodcock; father-in-law Robert Thomson; mother-in-law Connie, and step father-in-law Edward Bennet; and sons Dale and Darren Thomson.
The funeral service was held in the Elkhorn United Church on April 23, 2015 with Marianne Olfrey offi ciating. Interment took place at the Elkhorn Cemetery. Ushers were Blair Rowan and Billy Martin Jr. Everyone in attendance was considered an Honourary Pall Bearer. Special cousin, Bill Carter, was the Urn Bearer. The eulogy was given by Kevin Tutthill and Carmen Paull looked after playing the “Daniel O’Donnell” music for the service. Lunch was provided by the Elkhorn Elks Lodge at the Elks Hall following the service.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to The Elkhorn Cemetery, The Elks Purple Cross Fund for Children or the charity of your choice in memory of Dorothy.
