Obituary of Dorothy Smith

Dorothy Lavern Smith (nee Wilcox) of Camrose, Alberta passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2014 at the age of 81 years. Dorothy Lavern Smith was born June 3, 1932 in Camrose to Harold and Emma Wilcox; the youngest of eight children. She was great niece of Ole Bakken who homesteaded the land that Camrose was built on. Dorothy passed away April 2, 2014 in St. Mary's Hospital at the age of 81 years. Growing up in Camrose and while attending school, Dorothy belonged to the "Glee Club" and later became a bookkeeper. She was employed for 40 years at Highway 13 Transport. During that time she met John Smith "Smitty" and were later married June 28, 1958. Together they had four children. After Smitty passed and with the help of her mother, she provided a loving home as she continued to raise her children...never putting herself before them. She belonged to a bowling league for many years and sang "bass" in the Sweet Adeline's. Other interests included reading, crosswords; jigsaw puzzles, old movies, playing games, cards, dancing, music, and laughter. Dorothy also enjoyed camping with her family and friends. Many nights were spent by the campfire, late at night watching the stars or the dancing of the northern lights. Meteor Showers were always a highlight. Dorothy enjoyed travelling; Hawaii, Alaska across Canada throughout the United States by car... and a trip of a lifetime just recently to the Maritimes. Dorothy was shy, very kind hearted and loving; always there to lend a helping hand. Family was always important. Many gatherings were held with relatives and friends, but it didn't need to be a special occasion. Dorothy's greatest joy was becoming a grand and great-grandmother. How she cherished the time spent with them and watching them grow. She was so proud of each of them. We were so blessed for the life of Dorothy, for the joy, love and laughter she brought into our lives. A mother's love can never be replaced... it lives on in the heart's of her children forever. Left to cherish her memory are her children Cindy (Dave) Schumacher of Camrose, Michelle (Dan) Husak of Camrose, Colleen Smith of Sherwood Park, Kelly (Tracey) Smith of Camrose; eleven grandchildren Andrea, Ashlea, Tyler, Chantel, Michael, Daniel, Christopher, Alexis, Avery, Danielle and Michelle; six great-grandchildren Justin, Chloe, Micah, Allison, Jackson, and Hayden; sister Marjorie Benson of Edmonton; half-sister Trudy Hofseth of Vancouver; and one sister-in-law Gen Wilcox of Edmonton; nieces, nephews, and friends. Dorothy was predeceased by her parents; four brothers Stuart, Howard, Bing, and Don; two sisters Lorraine and Gwendolyn. A funeral service was held on Saturday, April 26, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. from the Camrose United Church (4829 50 Street, Camrose, AB) with Rev. Dean Shingoose officiating. Inurnment has taken place in Camrose Cemetery. Memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to The Children's Wish Foundation or the Stollery Children's Hospital.