Obituary of Dorothy Frances Black

July 19, 1920 - Medicine Hat, Alberta

January 13, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

Our Mother loved life. Even at her advanced age she greeted each new day with optimism.  We wish to announce the gentle passing of Dorothy Frances “Dode” Black at the age of 101 years, on January 13th, 2022, in her Calgary home.

Dorothy was born July 19, 1920, to Dr. Sydney and Amy McEwen in Medicine Hat, AB.  Younger sister to Hilda Beatrice McEwen, Dode attended school in “the Hat” until she went to the University of Alberta, where she had "way too much fun in her first year". Moving on to the University of Manitoba, she obtained a BSc in Home Economics.  In 1943, she married Gordon Black, who predeceased her in 2003.  Their family was raised in Lethbridge, AB.  After moving to Calgary in 1971, Dode and Gordon built the home she resided in until her passing.  Her friend and sister Hilda predeceased her in 2007.

Dorothy’s connections to Medicine Hat, Lethbridge and Waterton were deep and life long.  She first went to Waterton in the 1920’s with her parents. On dusty gravel roads, the trip was considerably more challenging than now. The Black family have had a cottage there since 1937. When asked for her favourite place in the world, she declared “Waterton, always!” This was especially meaningful as Dode and Gordon were widely traveled and had visited every continent, except Antarctica. Mum’s travels were the source of aviation stories, lifelong interests, and learning. Her memory of details of people and places was impressive.

Dorothy was more diplomat than politician. She quietly created the stage where the people she loved could thrive and contribute. Hers is a profound legacy. Thank you, Mum, for a lifetime of contributions that represent the best you could give. They are well received, and you will be greatly missed.

Her children, Barbara (Bryan) Huston, Margaret (Roy) Nelson, Kenneth (Bonny) Black and Robert Black celebrate her loving contributions to them and the larger community she touched. She also leaves seven grandchildren and their families, Kevin Huston, Megan (Mark) Rappaport, Timothy (Kristy) Nelson, Paul (Sarah Jane) Nelson, Sydney Black, Cameron Black (Carolynn), and Allison Black (Stephan).  She cherished her great-grandchildren, who enlivened her later life, Antonia, Amelia, Madelyn, Georgia, Kyla, Oakley, Simon, Amber, Elwood, Katherine, Riley, Seva and Avery.

Mum's open, loving nature led her to enjoy the friendship and exceptional care of Kathryn Rehm, Dory Monleon, Zuliyka Sultan Sabir, Puneet Gill, Kendra Kyle, Nancy Rogers, Marvie Egpit and Rose Parker in her later years.  They, along with the 40-year contribution of Pearl Lewin, allowed Mum to live at home as she wished, surrounded by laughter, dignity, good food and friendship.  Their compassionate, professional care was a gift to Mum and to her children.

A Celebration of Dorothy’s Life will be held at a later date. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Waterton Foundation, PO BOX 112, Waterton Park, AB T0K2M0, watertonfoundation@gmail.com, or to Alberta Birds of Prey Foundation, 2124 16 Ave, Coaldale, AB T1M 1J8, Phone: (403) 345-4262, http://www.burrowingowl.com/support/donate.php.

In living memory of Dorothy “Dode” Black, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.