It is with great sadness that the family of Dorothy Bates (nee Webb) announces her passing on Wednesday, October 8 at age 95. Predeceased by John her loving husband of 67 years.
Left to mourn her passing are her daughters, Christine, Joanne (Tom) and Karen (Bryan); grandchildren, Jacqueline (Blair), Caralynn (James), Cameron (Lauren), Matthew (Rachel), Alyssa and Michael; great-grandchildren, Tobias, Payton, Rowan, Weston, Linken and Calvin; niece Kerri; and extended family and dear friends.
Dorothy was born in Calne, Wiltshire, England. She immigrated to Canada and followed her passion of caring for children by becoming a Nanny for the Fisher family, all of whom she shared a special bond with. Her love of children flourished as a scout leader – Akela, for a North Toronto troop.
She met the love of her life, John, at one of her other jobs with DRML in Downsview. They married and Dorothy’s focus shifted to raising their family, while working part-time in various jobs.
Dorothy was an active member of the Willowdale community where the family grew up. She was a block parent, school lunch monitor at the public school and volunteer in the community baton club. Dorothy was a talented baker, cook, knitter and crocheter. The staple at many family dinners was her famous lemon meringue, apple and pumpkin pies. Family was blessed with receiving her knitted sweaters, socks and crocheted afghan blankets demonstrating her talents.
After retirement, John and Dorothy moved to Muskoka. Dorothy became active in the community by volunteering at the curling club and at the local school breakfast club program and school events. A quietly competitive person, Dorothy enjoyed curling, darts, crosswords, cards and scrabble.
When it was time to leave Muskoka, John and Dorothy chose a retirement home in Barrie, making it easier for all their children to visit. After John’s passing, Dorothy received invaluable support from the staff at the Waterford and the VON team, for which her family is deeply grateful. The staff often spoke of the warmth and positivity Dorothy brought to those around her during her care. Stoic to the end, she will be missed tremendously by her family.
In accordance with Dorothy’s wishes, no funeral will be held, and she recently asked that there be no tears, only fond memories shared! In that spirit, please raise a glass of your favorite red wine or gin and tonic in celebration of a strong lady whose life was devoted to caring for others, her community, and her family.
Words of condolence may be left for the family at www.peacefultransition.ca
Peaceful Transition Simcoe
Kelley & Trevor Powis
Posted on: Sunday, October 12, 2025Karen, Bryan and family. Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Kelley & Trevor Powis
Posted on: Sunday, October 12, 2025Karen, Bryan and family. Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Mervyn Fernandes
Posted on: Sunday, October 12, 2025Christine and I are so sorry for your loss.
The Arvanitis Family
Posted on: Sunday, October 12, 2025Karen, I’m very sorry to hear about your mother‘s passing. As we say in Greece, may her memory be eternal. Condolences to your family from all of the Arvanitis’.
John.
Cameron Pepper & family
Posted on: Monday, October 13, 2025Remembering our dear Grandma Bates and the many laughs she brought us all. “Olive-Oil”, as she would say… her hilarious play on “Au-Revoir”…raising a glass to her and her joyful spirit! Love always from Cameron, Lauren & Calvin.
Maria Mayer
Posted on: Tuesday, October 14, 2025Dear Karen Bryan and family, my sincere condolences to you all.
Tracey & Dan Christian
Posted on: Wednesday, October 15, 2025Thinking of your family at this time, we are sad to hear of Dorothy’s passing. We were neighbours for the last few years they lived in Huntsville and often stopped with our dog for a chat with John and Dorothy if they were out on their porch enjoying the beautiful weather and a glass of wine! John would give Juneau treats, and Dorothy would call him “blue eyes” while he proceeded to eat the flowers! We hope beautiful memories will keep them with you in your hearts.
Cheryl and Don Thompson
Posted on: Wednesday, October 15, 2025Cheers to a lady who was always cheerful and positive, with a smile on her face, as I’m sure she has now.
Kim and John Burnside
Posted on: Thursday, October 16, 2025Sending warm hugs to the whole family at this difficult time
Dorothy was a warm , caring neighbour when we lived in Glenwood , hope all your memories will be a blessing for everyone