Dorothy Elizabeth (Gates) McGregor

   It is with incredible sadness that we announce the passing of Dorothy McGregor on June 23, 2016 at the Crowsnest Pass Health Care Centre in Blairmore, AB.  She was blessed with 93 years of life.

   Dorothy was born in Coleman, AB on February 27, 1923 to proud parents, William and Caroline Gates.  She grew into a lovely, charming young woman with a strong sense of duty and love for her country.  It was these latter traits that prompted her to enlist in the Canadian Women’s Army Corps., where she served as a driver with the rank of Private during World War II.  She took great pride in her position, and appreciated the independence and opportunities that it provided her.  Her time in the Army positively affected her entire life.  During this time, Dorothy also met the love of her life, John “Jerry” McGregor, who was a mechanic in the Canadian Army.  It was a match made in Heaven, and the happy couple married on March 21, 1946.  Together, they went on to create a warm and loving home, in which they raised their son, and to make many beautiful memories.

   Dorothy had many hobbies and interests including working in her yard, baking, participating in card tournaments, trips to casinos and travelling in Canada and abroad.  Her independent, adventurous spirit, as well as the skills she acquired in the Army, allowed her to drive until she was 92 years of age.  Dorothy was also well known for her knitting, and many friends and family members benefitted from her talent.  Her dedication to helping others was evident in everything she did, from taking care of her family and friends, to her work as a nursing assistant after the passing of her husband, to her involvement with the Coleman Legion, the Royal Purple and the Order of the Eastern Star.  People were drawn to Dorothy and she touched the soul of everyone she encountered.  Her kindness and compassion will be deeply missed and forever remembered by everyone fortunate enough to have known her.

   Left to mourn her passing and celebrate her life is her dear son, James “Jim” (Pat) McGregor of Claresholm, AB, her cherished grandchildren, Christopher (Sarah) McGregor of North Vancouver, BC and Kerry (Lloyd) Bosch of Lethbridge, AB; her precious great grandchildren, Liam McGregor and Abigail and Lucas Bosch; her beloved sister, Helen Shields of Pincher Creek, AB; her devoted friend, Bonita Bourlon of Burmis, AB; Bonita’s children, Emelia (Kris) Laughlin of Okotoks, AB and Wyatt (Ashton) Laughlin of Strathmore, AB; very special life long friends, Susan and Bernard Demers of Edmonton; as well as her extended family and countless friends.

   She was predeceased by her husband, John “Jerry” McGregor; her parents, William and Caroline Gates; and her brother-in-law, William Shields.

   The Visitation took place at Fantin’s Funeral Chapel in Blairmore, AB on Sunday, June 26, 2016.  Condolences may be registered at www.fantinsfuneralchapel.ca.  Donations in memory of Dorothy will be gratefully accepted by the York Creek Lodge Residents Association (P.O. Box 1050, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0).

Fantin’s Funeral Chapel entrusted with the arrangements. 

(403) 562-8555

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