DOROTHY MAE CLARK

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DOROTHY MAE CLARK 1919 - 2006 It is with profound sadness that the family announces the sudden passing of Dorothy Mae Clark on November 29, 2006 at Deer Lodge Centre. Remaining to cherish her memory is her only child, Lori Melcosky and husband Earl, of Winnipeg and 'the best grandchildren, Tyson and Kylie. She was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Bruce; her sister Donalda; her parents, William and Mary Jane Smith; brothers-in-law, Bill Blackburn and Leslie Clark; and sister-in-law Susan Clark. Dorothy was born in Neepawa on February 16, 1919. She received her education at Mountain View and Eden Consolidated schools. After completion of high school, Dorothy came to Winnipeg to study hairdressing. Together with her classmate, they owned a shop, first in Portage, then in Neepawa. After 13 years of hairdressing, Dorothy wanted a change and accepted a job bookkeeping for the Neepawa Co-op. It was around this time she met John Bruce Clark, and on August 16, 1947, they were married. Together they strived to begin their own business, and in 1952, Clarks's Auto Body was a reality. A while later more changes were in store with the birth of their daughter, Lori. Dorothy stayed home for a time to raise her. She was a truly devoted and generous mother. They had a special relationship, one of trust, caring, fun and unconditional love. Her last job prior to retirement was doing something she excelled at. She was a cook at East View Lodge Personal Care Home. She was always a dutiful and hard worker, whether at home or the workplace. She was also an exceptional seamstress, a skilled knitter and an avid gardener. Dorothy and Bruce spent many pleasant years socializing with friends, camping in summer, snowmobiling in winter and playing cards year round. Dorothy also enjoyed playing bingo, going to the casinos and occasionally watching the horse races. She was usually lucky too. Family brought the greatest joy to Dorothy, and this was never more evident as when her grandchildren were born. Tyson and Kylie were her pride and joy. She always said she only had two, but didn't need anymore because they were the best ! She spent such quality time with them and her great sense of humour and fun made her easy to be with. They were her reason for living. In 2000, after the loss of her husband, Dorothy took a courageous step, leaving the town she'd been a part of for over 80 years. She decided she should be near her daughter and grandchildren so she could help out . She settled in at Hamilton House in Winnipeg. She thoroughly enjoyed her five and one half years there, making some wonderful friends. She was fiercely independent, never wanting to be a burden to anyone. The last 10 months have been quite a struggle, but her will and determination never faltered. In January 2006, she suffered a stroke and spent most of nine months in hospital. She overcame amazing obstacles and was an inspiration to all who knew her. She had resided at Deer Lodge just three weeks, but enjoyed and appreciated the care given to her. Special thanks to the staff of 5 South and 3 North at the Grace Hospital. Thank you also to staff of Lodge 4 West at Deer Lodge. In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home on December 10 at 2:00 p.m. A graveside ceremony will take place in Neepawa at a later date. Our Grief Equals Only Our Love For You CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 09, 2006