DOROTHY “DOT” DESPINS
A life well lived, a woman greatly loved. It is with sadness that the family of Dot Despins announce her sudden passing on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at the age of 75. Dot is survived by her husband of 57 years Les Despins; one brother Allan Olson; one daughter Judy (Danny Boyer) and children Paul (Joanne), Michael and Mark; son Don (Pat) and their daughter Robyn, Don’s sons Todd, Tyler (Tanya); son Wayne (Debra) and children Donna (Derek) and David; son Dale (Anita) and children Alyssa and Amy; son Glen (Wendy) and children Adam and Eric. Dot will also be missed by her six great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and many special friends. She was predeceased by her parents Marjorie and Fred Olson, sister Joyce Robson and sister-in-law Audrey Olson. Dot was born on March 5, 1934 in Prince Albert. She and Les were married November 4, 1951. During their marriage, they lived in Saskatoon and Moose Jaw and eventually returned home to Prince Albert in 1975. Dot will be remembered for her strong commitment to helping others and her dedicated contributions to the staff and residents at Pineview Terrace Lodge. She devoted countless hours to support the needs of palliative care patients and served as president of the Provincial Long Term Care Association. Most recently, she was honoured by the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region for recognition of twenty years of volunteer service. Dot had a passion for the lake and always looked forward to spending the summers at Waskesiu. She organized many celebrations with family and friends in the little cabin. Dot was also very active in the Red Hat Society. Through her leadership, a chapter known as the “Spicy Cranberry Tarts” was formed. Known by her Red Hat members as the “Queen Bee,” Dot enjoyed many social gatherings and fun activities. She loved to sing, read and enjoyed playing bridge. Dot was a life member of the Prince Albert curling community, an avid curler and was proud of her family’s curling accomplishments. All those who knew and loved Dot will dearly miss her enthusiasm, kindness, quick wit and sense of humour. A celebration of Dot’s life will be held at River Park Memorial Chapel on Saturday, May 2nd at 2:00 p.m. Pastor Dan Haugen will officiate. Interment of cremated remains will take place in the Garden of Christus, Prince Albert Memorial Gardens. Family and friends may email condolences to www.riverparkfh.ca. It is the family’s request that memorial donations may be made to the Pineview Terrace Lodge Auxiliary in memory of their mother. Arrangements are entrusted to Don Moriarty.