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DOROTHY ROCHON
Born: Nov 23, 1945
Date of Passing: Dec 17, 2015
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
DOROTHY ROCHON November 23, 1945 - December 17, 2015 It is with heavy hearts and unspeakable sadness that we announce the sudden, but peaceful, passing of our much loved wife, mother, grammie and friend, Dorothy, on Thursday, December 17, 2015 at the Health Sciences Centre, surrounded by her family. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, 85 Kirkbridge Drive, on Monday, December 28, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Kevin Bettens presiding. A private family interment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dorothy's memory can be made to CancerCare Manitoba.
Publish Date: Dec 26, 2015
DOROTHY ROCHON November 23, 1945 - December 17, 2015 It is with heavy hearts and unspeakable sadness that we announce the sudden, but peaceful, passing of our much loved wife, mother, grammie and friend, Dorothy, on Thursday, December 17, 2015 at the Health Sciences Centre, surrounded by her family. Dorothy will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 46 years, Gerry, her daughter Michelle (Larry) Bird and son Dean (Jayme) Rochon. She also leaves behind her dearly cherished granddaughters Anna, Victoria, Julia and Elizabeth Bird, and McKinly and Blakelyn Rochon. She also had a very special place in her heart for her "grand-dogs" Murphy and Lilo. Dorothy is also survived by her twin sister Pauline (Jake) Shukin, and sister Lucille Strilaeff. She was predeceased by her parents Fred and Mabel Relkoff and Gerry's parents Rosario and Mathilda Rochon, as well as by her dear friend Mary Langhan. Born on November 23, 1945, Dorothy was raised in the small Russian community of Verigin in Saskatchewan. Upon graduating from high school she moved to Saskatoon where she met Gerry while attending Business College and working at Federated Co-op. Dorothy and Gerry married on July 12, 1969, started their family shortly thereafter and also became owners of the Kenaston Hotel in Saskatchewan. After a few years of running the hotel, they decided that it was not the life that they wanted for their young family, so the decision was made to move to Winnipeg where they could also be closer to Gerry's family. Once in Winnipeg, Dorothy worked for Canadian Gypsum part time which enabled her to spend more time at home to raise her family. Eventually she went on to work for Canada Revenue Agency for 24 years, before retiring in 2012. Entertaining, cooking, travelling and following the various teams that her granddaughters played on were near and dear to Dorothy's heart. She faithfully hosted family dinners on Sundays and was always planning a special dinner with new recipes, to share with friends and extended family. Later in life, Dorothy and Gerry were fortunate to enjoy travelling to Hawaii, Mexico, Florida, Las Vegas and cruises to the Caribbean. She also enjoyed her shopping trips to Minneapolis and Chicago with Michelle and the recent end of summer camping trip to Grand Beach with Gerry, Dean and her granddaughters. She faithfully attended her granddaughters' sporting events and was well known as the girls' Gramma. Our mom was an amazing woman whose love for her family was truly admired by all. She was a devoted wife, mother and grammie whose generous love and attention enabled each of us to feel special. Strength and determination were among her greatest attributes which she relied on heavily in her final days. She faced her recent cancer diagnosis with an insurmountable sense of strength that left her feeling determined that we would all celebrate one last Christmas together. When she realized that this was not meant to be, it was her sheer determination that prevailed, enabling her to say her final goodbyes to those she loved most. While gone much too soon, our mom leaves behind a wonderful legacy of a life rich with love and memories that we will treasure always. We would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to Shelly from Radiation Oncology at CancerCare Manitoba with special thanks to Dr. Jacob - GD4 Health Sciences Centre for his special care and attention in assuring our mother's peaceful passing. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, 85 Kirkbridge Drive, on Monday, December 28, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Kevin Bettens presiding. A private family interment will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dorothy's memory can be made to CancerCare Manitoba. My Wife, our Mom, our Grammie, our Everything, Gone but never forgotten. Wheeler Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematorium Please sign the book of memories at www.wheelerfuneral.com
Publish Date: Dec 22, 2015

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 26, 2015
Condolences & Memories (30 entries)
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Mom, As the days since your passing have turned into months, I am left with an inexpressible sense of sadness as the reality of our lives without you slowly sinks in. Besides missing you terribly in my everyday life, it is celebrating the special occasions without you that hurts the most as your absence is so very, very palpable. I take comfort though knowing that you are now at peace and free from suffering, so rest well my dear, sweet mom for until we meet again I will see you in my dreams...... - Posted by: Michelle (Daughter) on: Mar 09, 2016
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Dorothy, your smiling eyes have brought back so many memories, so many warm and comforting moments spent with you. You have left a furrow behind you filled with love and self-giving and that's what life is all about...your heavenly hosts must be so pleased! Thoughts and prayers are with you and your dear family, Gerry, Michelle, Dean and grand-daughters... - Posted by: Maurice and Anita Cormier (brother and sister-in-law) on: Dec 31, 2015
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We were saddened to hear of Aunt Dorothy's passing. We will remember her sense of humour, kindness and smile. Our deepest sympathy to Uncle Gerry, Michelle, Dean and families. You are in our thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Terry, Donna, Zach and Brianne Strilaeff (Family) on: Dec 28, 2015
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We have been blessed to have met Dorothy and Gerry after a work transfer 8 years ago. Dorothy's as well as Gerry's generosity, kindness and friendship were so greatly appreciated. Dorothy will definitely be missed. Our prayers are with Gerry and his family. Andy & Laurie - Posted by: Andre & Laurie (Friend) on: Dec 28, 2015
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Our warmest hugs, we will miss our "Hockey Grandma"! Karen, Jade & Jazz - Posted by: Blando Family () on: Dec 27, 2015
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Gerry and family. You all have our deepest sympathy. Dorthy was such a lovely lady. You are all in our prayers. - Posted by: Jacqueline and Gilbert Bouchard () on: Dec 26, 2015
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Gerry and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Dorothy was a wonderful person, very genuine and sincere. She will be missed by many. - Posted by: Dawn Kilfoyle (friend/coworker) on: Dec 26, 2015
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We are greatly saddened to hear of Dorothy's passing. Our thoughts are with you. - Posted by: Gil and Marjorie Joanis (Friends) on: Dec 26, 2015
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Michelle, Lizzy and family, we are so sorry for your sudden loss of your mom and grandma. We wish you nothing but peace to bring you all comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. You all are in our thoughts and prayers at this time. Big hugs - Posted by: The Puchniak Family (Family friend) on: Dec 26, 2015
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Gerry, Dean, Michelle and families, we are having a very difficult time understanding how such an unexpected occurrence can cause such troubled times for a very wonderful family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time. May God Bless you all. - Posted by: Denis & Mariette Tremblay (friends) on: Dec 24, 2015
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Our deepest sympathy Gerry, Michelle, Dean and family. May God Bless you and comfort you in this time of sorrow. May you find joy in celebrating her life and remembering all the good times and favorite memories. - Posted by: Maxine and Denis Gaudet (Friend) on: Dec 24, 2015
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Gerry, Michelle & Larry, Dean & Jayme & grandchildren. My sincere condolences on your loss. Dorothy was a wonderful wife, mother, grammie and friend and all who knew her will miss her. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May she rest in peace. - Posted by: Jo-Anne Souyri (Friend) on: Dec 23, 2015
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To Gerry, Michelle, Dean and the grandkids. My thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of loss. Dorothy is in good Hands and she will always be remembered as a great lady, friend. What I will miss the most is the hearty laugh. - Posted by: Paul Roy (family friend) on: Dec 23, 2015
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Gerry and family, It's been many years since I've seen Dorothy but she was a warm, wonderful lady. My condolences to you all during this very difficult time. Joanne Kaston- Radford - Posted by: Joanne Kaston-Radford (Friend ) on: Dec 23, 2015
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As I look at her beautiful picture I still can't believe that Aunt Dorothy is gone. I have so many fond and happy memories. Holidays we took together as families when we were little. She was a special person who made everyone feel welcome and special and loved. With deepest sympathy from my family to yours. You are in our thoughts and prayers. - Posted by: Craig, Kim Jillian and Cullen Gordon (Family) on: Dec 23, 2015
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Mr. Rochon, Michelle, Dean and families, we were so sorry to hear of Mme. Rochon's diagnosis and even more saddened by your loss. It was always a pleasure to see "Memere and Pepere" at soccer games, cheering on their girls and their teammates. Our deepest sympathies and warm thoughts go out to you all. Reid, Paulette, Piper and Ryder McMurchy - Posted by: Reid, Paulette, Piper and Ryder McMurchy (Soccer friends) on: Dec 23, 2015
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Our deepest sympathy Gerry,Michelle,Dean and family. May God Bless you and comfort you in this time of sorrow. May you find joy in celebrating her life and remembering all the good times and favorite memories. - Posted by: Maxine and Denis Gaudet (Friend) on: Dec 23, 2015
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Gerry and family. Our deepest sympathy to all of you. May your faith in God and the support of family and friends help you at this time and be with you every day in the years to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with you! - Posted by: Michel and Élaine Landry (Friend) on: Dec 23, 2015
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Gerry, Michelle, Dean....I am shaken by the news. I have tried to understand how this all happened and so quickly. My thoughts are with all of you during this time. I cherished my time growing up with Gerry and Dorothy, from the out door rink to the Dill pickle chips in the freezer. Dorothy made a lasting impression on me that I will always hold with me. I hope to I still in my kids what Dorothy and my mom had, true friendship. Reading this obit brought back so many painful memories, but the at the end I smiled, knowing that Mary was upstairs waiting for Dorothy. I couldn't think of two better ladies that are in a better place. I am incredibly humbled and entirely grateful for having Dorothy in my life growing up. - Posted by: James Langhan (Friend) on: Dec 22, 2015
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I was so very shocked and saddened to hear about Auntie Dorothy passing. My thoughts are with the entire family and hope you are all staying close and supporting each other at this very difficult time in your lives. I have very fond memories of visiting in Winnnipeg and even remember the visiting when you guys lived on Cumberland Ave in Saskatoon and of course the hotel in Keneston was always fun. Michelle and Dean were such cute little kids....great memories. I am not sure if Uncle Gerry remembers that they drove my brother Mike and I back from Winnipeg to Saskatoon at the end of their honeymoon. Aunt Dorothy was sitting real close to Gerry for the entire trip and am pretty sure they didn't want the two little brats in the back seat, haha. I still remember them being so close to each other on that trip 46 years ago. I always think of them as a really great couple. Take care. - Posted by: Monique Wagner (Niece to Gerry and Dorothy and cousin to Dean and Michelle) on: Dec 22, 2015
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Mr. Rochon, Michelle, Dean & Family, My deepest sympathy to you all. I'm so sorry for your loss. I will miss seeing Mrs. Rochon at the hairdresser or at the grocery store. She was such a friendly and caring person that she always asked how my parents and family were doing. She spoke highly of her family and will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Laurie (Evans), Darrell, Ryland & Kyle Carriere (Childhood Neighbour) on: Dec 22, 2015
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Gerry, Michelle, Dean and families -we are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers.....we still can't believe it!! Our condolences to you all ! We'll see you on Monday ! Aline & Claude, BIG HUGS !! - Posted by: Aline & Claude Boisjoli (friends) on: Dec 22, 2015
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Our deepest condolences to the family. Dorothy was a great lady. So sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Gerry and Carmel Langhan () on: Dec 22, 2015
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Our family would like to send our sympathies to Gerry, Dean, Michelle, and their families. Since we have heard the news, our thoughts have been with all of you. We have been sharing our stories together. How lucky we are to be part of such a strong and compassionate family. We have very fond memories of Dorothy. The time we all shared in Vegas for Dean and Jayme's wedding will be the most memorable. Dorothy opened her heart to all us, and made a lasting impression that will stay with us for a very long time. - Posted by: Ted, Sue, Robyn, and Dayna (family) on: Dec 22, 2015
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Dear Gerry, Michelle, Dean and families: We are deeply saddened that you have had to say goodbye to your beautiful wife, mother and Grammie. She was so proud of you all! I heard so many wonderful stories from her over the past few years at Knights and Agency gatherings. How I enjoyed her company and witnessing her pride in her/your family. What I learned about Dorothy was that she was a sincere, genuine, caring and compassionate individual. We can only imagine how much she was loved, and how much she will be missed. In some way, she will always be with you. That kind of love never goes away. Cherish the memories. May you all find comfort in supporting one another and carry on her tradition of love and caring. God's blessings to each one of you. We keep you in our thoughts and prayers. As we will be away to our son's wedding in California, we will not be able to join you on the 28 but will keep you in our prayers. - Posted by: Glen & Denise Walleyn () on: Dec 22, 2015
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Gerry, Michelle, Dean, and families - I was so shocked and sorry to hear of Dorothy's passing. Hugs and prayers for you all. God Bless! - Posted by: Bonnie Popoff Russo (friend) on: Dec 22, 2015
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My deepest sympathy. I was very fortunte to have had your mom across the street for several years. Always kind to me. Always caring. Sending hugs to the family from out east. Dan Painchaud - Posted by: Dan Painchaud (neighbor) on: Dec 22, 2015
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Our thoughts & prayers are with you at this very sad time in your lives we hope that your beautiful memories will help you during this difficult time - Posted by: Gilles & Linda Rochon (Cousin) on: Dec 22, 2015
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Mom, It has only been 5 days and I am so glad that all your pain is gone but I miss you so much already. Its not the same without you here. Its all the small things that I miss. When the phone rings I still hold hope that it might be you again just checking in to see how my day was then quickly realize that it will never happen again. Don't worry though we will make it through this as tough as it may be. We all hurt right now but are all looking after each other and our family is as tight and as strong as ever, just as you wished and as we all promised. I love you and miss you soooo much. - Posted by: DEAN (SON) on: Dec 22, 2015
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Mr. Rochon, Michelle, Dean and your families; My deepest condolences on your great loss. May your faith in knowing she is in a better place provide you some comfort and peace. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. - Posted by: Tanis Menheer (Penner) (Friend) on: Dec 22, 2015