Tribute

Dorothy Ellen Wright, Dottie, our loving mother, grandma, great grandma and loyal friend passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 11th, 2017 at the age of 94 years young. Having survived a life changing stroke in 1999, Dottie was an inspiration to all who witnessed her courage, strength and determination as she fought her way back, always with a smile on her face and a mischievous glimmer in her eyes!
Dottie was predeceased by her husband Jack in 1996 after 53 years of marriage and she is survived by her Son Gary (Carmine) Daughter Debbie (Warren), 3 grandchildren Cary, Shawn (Janis), Alyssa (John), 6 great grandchildren Kai, Luca, Josie, Connor, Kiana & Makai, two of her sisters Mary Gormley & Peggy Trites as well as many other nieces, nephews, friends and wonderful caregivers. Her caregivers Mark, Matthew, Jennifer, Owen and Joyce became an extended family and provided gracious loving care for Dottie. Debbie and Gary along with their families will be forever grateful for all the extra love, laughter, care and comfort they provided to Dottie in her final years.
Born February 23, 1923 in Pollett River, New Brunswick, Dottie was one of ten siblings who grew up with her family living off their isolated farm backing onto the Pollett River. Always a hard worker, Dottie starting working in a grocery store in Petitcodiac when she was 14. At the age of 18 Dottie met the love of her life, a young airman named Jack Wright. Married in 1942, Dottie encouraged Jack to pursue his dream of becoming a medical doctor when Jack completed his military service. Dottie and Jack moved to Vancouver Island where Jack attended Victoria College, U.B.C. before moving to the outskirts of Toronto where Jack graduated from medical school in 1953. They had their first child Gary in 1943. Upon Jack’s graduation they moved to New Westminster where Jack entered into a family medical practice with his good friend George Piercy. Debbie, their second child was born in 1953. Living in New Westminster until the late 70’s, they relocated to a farm in Maple Ridge and acquired their beloved horses Cara and Nawari. Later moving to a river front property in Maple Ridge, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary there and then built their present home in Maple Bay in 1995. After having fought a brave battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Jack passed away in 1996. Dottie, who continued living in her home until her passing, rebounded from her stroke through the loving care of her family, friends and caregivers. Those who witnessed her determination to battle back, saw the same relentless determination to regain her abilities. With the loving care of her family, friends and caregivers, Dottie was able to fight her way back and live a rewarding life after her stroke filled with love, laughter and memories!
Offering unconditional love to her family and friends, Dottie led by example in her later years. Her legacy, and the legacy of Jack and Dottie, are ones of wonderful memories and enduring love for family and friends. Although sorely missed, Dottie’s life was a life ‘well lived.’ A sincere thank you to her neighbours and caregivers who over the last few years kept a watchful eye on Mom. We hope all of you drew strength by her example – her spirit continues to inspire all of us! A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.