October 15, 2018
On October 15th at 12:14 pm at the grand age of 105, Dorothy Wilhelmina Rouch (she never liked her middle name), left this mortal coil peacefully and on her own terms. She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Frank (1990) and her eldest son, David (1981). She is survived by her son Michael (Zulis), granddaughter Serah (Marissa & Kaitlyn), grandson Chud and granddaughter Didi in South Africa; six nieces, four in England, one in Michigan and one in France.
Born in India, Dorothy moved to England as a young woman in 1930, met Frank and married him (finally) in 1940. Even though Frank was wounded and captured in Italy in 1943, they (and all friends and relatives) survived the War. Dorothy was proud to be recognized as the oldest surviving member of the Woman's Land Army, recently receiving a medal from a grateful British government.
After retirement, Dorothy and Frank moved to South Africa in 1975. Upon the tragic death of their son, David, they moved to Canada in 1983 to live with their son Michael and his wife, Zulis. In all, Dorothy lived on four continents, India, Africa, Europe and North America.
For the last five years Dorothy lived at Royal Crescent Gardens in Maple Ridge. Her family cannot thank enough the amazing staff (you know who you are!) who cared and worried for her up to, and including, her final wishes.
Dorothy acknowledged that she had lived a good life, and had few regrets.
In accordance with her wishes there will be no service, only a private family remembrance.
To those who knew and loved her please raise a glass to her memory. Her favourite charities were the CNIB and the Salvation Army.