Obituary of Doris Dutka

Doris Dutka – wife, sister, mother, grandmother, musician and friend – has gone Home, bravely battling a vascular ailment until February 15, 2008 Doris Dibb was a true Alberta girl. Born in Castor on November 12, 1923, she spent her early years alongside her dear sister Una (Teskey) in Huxley, and then Black Diamond. Una and Doris spent hours together at the piano. Escaping melodies often caught the ear of a young engineer named Rudy Dutka, who would walk past the Dibb house on his way to work. After a short courtship, Rudy married his “pretty blue eyes” in July of 1945. They launched life together in Wainwright, then Taber, where they welcomed their first daughter Diane (Dan) Swiatek. The Dutka family relocated to Calgary, where daughters Catherine (Bruce) Jespersen and Christie (Robyn) Foret arrived. In an email age, Doris remained dedicated to written correspondence. 2008 marked her 70th year in touch with Australian pen pal George Freeman. For more than thirty years, Doris shared a bench with Una at Piano Group. The duo recorded more than 110 duets. Doris’ favourite piece was Gluch’s “Gavotte.” Much like her treasured Steinway piano, Doris proved beauty, boldness and strength could emanate from a small frame, especially following Rudy’s passing in 2005. Along with her sister, daughters and their husbands, Doris is adored and survived by her sister-in-law Lillian Lowell, and her grandchildren Liam, Taryn, Ben, Ryan, Kyle, Megan, Jonas, Morgan, Taylor and Avery. Her legacy of faith, love, humility and grace lives on. Doris’ family offers heartfelt gratitude to Drs. Petrasek, Appoo and Godinez and their extraordinary team. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to CVICU c/o Foothills Hospital at (403)944-2494. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Canadian Martyrs Catholic Church (835 Northmount Drive N.W.) on Friday, February 22, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. Tributes and Reception to follow at Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North) at 12:30 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Doris Dutka, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH Telephone: (403) 276-2296.