Obituary of Dorothy Macfarlane Lee

You were my guide, philosopher, and friend.? " Alexander Pope Dorothy Lee passed away on October 15, 2009 after a short illness, due to a fall. She is survived by her niece Margaret of Edmonton AB and cousins James Johnson of Blenheim ON, and Harriet Gregory of Winnipeg MB. Dorothy was born in Winnipeg to J.K. and Margaret Johnston. She and her older sister Elizabeth grew up in Veregin and Kamsack, where their father farmed. A remarkably diligent student, Dorothy set the bar high for her generation. She attended the University of Saskatchewan, earning a Masters Degree in biology. She then applied the same discipline to her working years. Dorothy was employed as a researcher for the Federal CCF parliamentary caucus in Ottawa. She then became a civil servant, serving with the secretariat of the Royal Commission on Rural Life and going on to become an accomplished editor. She did contract editing for Prairie Justice Research at the University of Regina. After a short marriage to Tim Lee, Dorothy returned to the workforce at the Community/Stapleford Clinic where she was employed until her retirement. Dorothy attended the Founding Convention of the New Democratic Party and was of the pioneer generation that created Medicare. To the end, Dorothy remained an eager student of world politics and was always open to a good conversation. She travelled and explored other cultures with her dear friends and family. Dorothy was a generous person and helped many people during their hard times?. All of us, who experienced her rich intelligence and were part of the extended family around her will deeply miss her. After developing rheumatoid arthritis, Dorothy was able to remain in her home due to the dedication of many wonderful people. Their efforts are greatly appreciated. There will be no service. Cremation will be followed by an interment in Kamsack SK. Everyone is welcome to attend an open house held at Dorothys home on Sunday, October 25, 2009 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. Dorothy tried to practice a green lifestyle and in recent years had deep concerns about the environment. If desired, you could do something good for the health of the planet in Dorothys memory. An on-line book of condolences may be signed at www.speersfuneralchapel.com