Obituary of Dorothy Baker

BAKER, Dorothy Margaret Born to Walter and Margaret Burchett at Tawatinaw, Alberta on January 23, 1921. Dorothy passed away in Westlock on February 11, 2013. Surviving and expressing their love are daughter Cathryn (Dave) Lent, sons David (Linda) Baker and Brian (Jeff Park) Baker, and her sisters Mavis (John) Gamble and Iris (Ed) Burchett Oleske. Her eight grandchildren and nine great- grandchildren were always so important to her, and they will miss her constant support, encouragement and love.Dorothy was predeceased by her husband Donald (November 11, 1990) and daughter M. Irene (Bernie) Hornby, her brothers Norman (Rose) and Harry (Leah) and sister Joyce (Rob) Garth.Dorothy's life was filled with care and support for family and community. Her early career as teacher at Jarvie and Hazel Bluff paused for family, farming and community. She returned to teach several generations of children at Westlock Junior High School. Through her years of retirement students often remembered her to family members with "Mrs. Baker was the best teacher I ever had!" Thank you all, and what wonderful recognition for how she cared deeply for her students. Mom believed that everyone could contribute and learn every day. She began teaching after completing the Normal School certification program, and for many years returned to add to her University credentials. Following retirement she enjoyed travel, learning, and continued volunteer service. For most of her life, she was active in community programs of the United Church Women (Hazel Bluff), Westlock & District Agricultural Fair, Farm Women of Alberta, The Westlock and District Historical Society, and The Order of the Eastern Star. She co-wrote, contributed to, and assisted with publication of local history books including Remembering Our Yesterdays (History of Hazel Bluff School District No. 2289), The First 75 Years (local church history of United Church) and 80 Years of Progress (Westlock area community history).Thank you to Dr. G. Gokiert and Dr. P. Coulson and all the good people working at the Continuing Care Centre and Smithfield Lodge for their kindness and attention during her last years. Please direct donations in Mom's memory to the charity of your choice c/o 10004 - 105 Street, Westlock, AB T7P 1V2.A Memorial Service will be held at Hazel Bluff Community Centre on Tuesday, February 26, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. Private Inurnment with family at a later date in the Hazel Bluff Cemetery.Westlock Funeral Home and CrematoriumLtd. in charge of arrangements.