October 28, 1921 - November 8, 2022
Dorothy died at the age of 101 on Nov. 8, 2022, in Innisfail, Alberta.
She was born on Oct. 28, 1921 to Margaret Elizabeth and Stephen Joseph Clare. Her mother died in 1925 shortly after the birth of Dorothy's sister, Elsie. As a result, Dorothy and her siblings were put up for adoption. She was raised in Big Valley by her foster parents Frank and Marion Nowlin.
She graduated from The Misericordia Hospital School of Nursing in Edmonton in 1944 and during the same year she married Alan Ripley. They raised their children in Edmonton and in 1961, Dorothy returned to work as an LPN instructor finishing her career at what is presently Norquest College. Alan died in 1980 and Dorothy married a dear family friend, Murray Page in 1981 and relocated to Innisfail. She was an active citizen serving on the Hospital Auxiliary Board, singing with the Senior Serenaders, volunteering at St. Mark's Anglican Church and playing plenty of bridge.
After Murray died in 1997, Dorothy moved into Snowberry Downs and lived there independently (still driving!) until 2019. Fitness and lifelong learning were qualities that sustained her in her later years. After suffering a stroke, Dorothy moved into Sunset Manor and remained there until her death.
Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, husbands Alan and Murray, sisters Elsie and Elizabeth, brothers Walter and Hilliard, son-in -law Frank, daughter-in-law Barbara, grandson Reid, and special friends Garry Pringle and Arthur Hillson.
She is survived by her sister, Marion, son, Frank Ripley (Lynn) and two daughters, Brenda Bracke and Judy Ripley (David Lysay), stepdaughter Barbara Page, stepson, Douglas Page, grandchildren: Shelly, Graham (Andrea), Bryan, Rhys, Peerse (Mel) and Michael (Roxane); as well as great-grandchildren: Janice, William, Mia, Trent and Lucas.
The family would like to thank the residents of Snowberry Downs, the staff at Sunset Manor, Cathy Jorgensen, Dr. Barker, Dr. Chauhan and caregivers Bettina, Velma and Jim for their incredible support in Dorothy's final years.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
