DOROTHY MARY KINSMAN (BALSDON)

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DOROTHY MARY KINSMAN (nee BALSDON) Dorothy Kinsman passed away peacefully in the early morning of April 5, 2007. Dorothy was 97 years old and would have been 98 on April 6. Surviving Dorothy is her son Jimi, his wife Dayna, their children, Laura and Gordie; grandsons, Geoff and Eric. Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, Fanny and James. Dorothy Mary was born in England in 1909. She and her mother originally tried to come to Canada on the Titanic but were unable to obtain tickets. Most of her life she resided in Winnipeg. Her work career was at Eaton's in the mail order department. It was here she met many of her life long friends. Dorothy was a very kind and giving person who loved children. She enjoyed watching the kids play outside in the school yard across from where she lived. Her home was always open to the neighbourhood kids, so much so that when parents were looking for their children they knew to look at the Kinsman house first. Dorothy was an accomplished gardener which she tended to side by side with her mother for many years. One of her favourite things was to indulge the children with home grown raspberries and ice cream. In her final days ice cream was all she would eat. A strong sense of community was paramount; she was a member of the Lord Roberts Ladies Auxiliary, the Golden Rule Seniors and Rosedale United Church. Later in her life, her greatest enjoyment came from bus excursions to the U.S. with her senior's group. Dorothy lived a very long and full life. She had battled cancer and won at the age of 76. She had seen so many things during her 98 years it is almost beyond comprehension. Despite her own ill health at the time, she remained very supportive of her people and friends. Her spark and sense of humour was contagious and she brought out the best in everyone. She will be deeply missed. A service for Dorothy will be held at Churchill Park United Church, Monday April 16 at 1:00 p.m. The family would like to thank Misericodia Place for their extended care, warmth and compassion. A very special acknowledgment goes to Dorothy's oldest and dearest friend Elsie Westman. Their special friendship began when they were just girls and remained steadfast throughout Dorothy's life. In lieu of flowers donations in Dorothy's name may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 11, 2007