An inspiration of kindness and generosity throughout a life peacefully lived for over 91 years was role modelled by Dorothy Mary Newton (formerly Hamel, and born Monette, a.k.a. "Dot"). She died peacefully on December 5, 2016 in order to celebrate Christmas in Heaven. Born in Ottawa on November 17, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Katherine (nee Kearns) and Thomas Monette; sister of Michael Monette (the late Sandra) and Aunt of Doug and the late Jason Monette.
Although she worked for Metropolitan Life during WWII, and later CBC, she was a hard-working and dedicated volunteer for most of her life, including at her Church- Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish; for the Catholic Women's League; St. Patrick's Retirement Home; Meals on Wheels; and many acts of service as part of a Sorority (Beta Sigma Phi) for over 45 years. She married Paul Roger Hamel in 1963 (died 1981), and together they created a loving home and adventurous summers along the Ottawa River for their two daughters: Theresa Hamel and Sue Hamel (Rodney Swatton). Her grandchildren (Karena and Zoe Lepage; Nemma and Ian Swatton) took comfort in her stories, kindness and songs for all occasions. Dorothy later married Donald Newton in 1991 (died 2012). They shared many great travels, active volunteering, and were kindly supported by Don's family, including his children: Carol Ann Hanna (John), Kevin Newton, Geri Delle Palme (the late Nat), Don Newton (Sue), Kathleen Gallahue (the late Tom) and his many grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Her spiritual practice and strong faith no doubt contributed to her way of seeing and being in the world, where giving and praying was part of her everyday. All who had the privilege of spending time with her knew her great sense of humour, quick wit, endless kindness, deep compassion and unconditional loving heart. She will be remembered well, God bless her, for God blessed us with her. Deep heart-felt thank you goes out to all those who contributed to making her life so full, safe, healthy and peaceful, especially the caring staff of the Pinecrest Nursing Home and her 85-year old teddy bear Bruno.
Visitation at McEvoy- Shields Funeral Home, 1411 Hunt Club Road, on Thursday, December 8 from 7-9 p.m. Funeral Mass on Friday, December 9 at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 1758 Alta Vista Drive. Interment at Notre Dame Cemetery.
Donations in memory of Dorothy may be made to the Ottawa Food Bank.