Dorothy Ann Postma
Dorothy Ann Postma, of Courtenay BC, passed away on 15 September 2014 quickly and quietly after a lengthy illness. She is cherished with deep love by her husband Wes, of Courtenay BC; daughters Lianne and Susan of Winnipeg, MB; son-in-law Mark Spencer (Lianne); and her beloved “little man”, her grandson Finn.
Dorothy was born in Winnipeg, MB and always considered herself a Winnipeg girl. She was raised by her mother, Caroline Walker, after the death of her father, Roy Walker, at the end of WWII. Dorothy had wonderful memories of growing up in Manitoba where she spent most of her time with extended family (especially cousins Danny and Dorothea Fraser), many friends and playing all types of sports. She was a top-notch ball player and loved to dance, both of which she continued to enjoy for much of her life.
After earning her Teacher’s Diploma from the Manitoba Teacher’s College in 1960, she taught at several rural schools in Manitoba culminating at a DND school in Rivers MB. There she met a tall, young pilot-in-training who swept her away to a nomadic life as a military wife. Living many places in Canada and in the eastern United States, Dorothy created homes for her family that were always filled with love, laughter, kindness, comfort and security. She continued to teach full- or part-time, worked at Eaton’s Winnipeg, volunteered, played sports, embraced numerous hobbies, and spent countless hours in her gardens. Dorothy was passionate about her gardening and loved to be surrounded by flowers. She always found friends wherever she went and she loved spending time having fun. Though she considered herself a “happening”, Dorothy was very organized, methodical and often in the middle of any organizing committee.
Family was the most important part of her life. She was a strong, feisty, loving wife and mother who shaped her home with simple rules. Always be there for each other. Be honest and own up to your mistakes. Be kind. Never go to bed angry. Face your challenges with determination and humour. Do your best. This is what she has taught her family and is the legacy of the truly wonderful woman she was.
There are no immediate plans for a service; however, donations in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada. The family is very appreciative of the care and compassion provided by the staff of Eagleview Care Unit in Comox, BC.