Obituary of Dorothy Margaret Nicholson

May 21, 1938 – Birsay, Saskatchewan

October 5, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Dorothy Margaret Nicholson (nee Bowen-Smith), born on May 21, 1938, beloved wife of the late Edward (“Ted”) Nicholson, peacefully passed away on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the age of 86, in the presence of her family at the South Health Campus hospital, in Calgary, AB.

Dorothy was born in Birsay, SK, and grew up in that province. There, she trained to become a registered nurse at the Regina Grey Nuns’ Hospital School of Nursing, completing her studies in 1959. After she married Ted in Santa Monica, CA, in 1963, they moved to Calgary where they started their family.

Dorothy will be warmly remembered as a devoted, supportive wife to Ted and an encouraging mother to their children, Christa Nicholson (widow of Graham Oben) and Robert Nicholson (Denise Megliola), as well as a proud grandmother of two granddaughters, Shan Ling Nicholson Oben (23 years), and Edie Marie Nicholson (17 years), all of Calgary, AB.

A skillful homemaker as well as a helpful volunteer and quiet cheerleader for her children’s activities, Dorothy was dedicated to the health and welfare of her family. She enthusiastically kept current on the latest nutritional, health, and exercise information and developments. She returned to part-time nursing when her children were older and received an award for Long Service from the Alberta Association of Registered Nurses in recognition of more than 30 years in the profession.

Physical activity and sports were a joy for Dorothy—she could pitch a mean softball when she was younger and knew the Glenmore bicycle paths well. She enjoyed both downhill and cross-country skiing with her family and exercised regularly at home and the local gym. She also liked to play tennis and golf, continuing to play the latter with family and friends into her early 80s. Music, reading and gardening would also bring a smile to her face.

Dorothy’s Christian faith was always central to her life. At various times, she sang in the church choir, participated in bible studies, and volunteered at the church. She was especially thankful for Bethany Chapel’s accompaniment after the sudden passing of Ted in 2007, as well as during the pandemic and her most recent age-related health challenges.

Dorothy was predeceased by her father, Preston Bowen-Smith (1954); her mother, Edith Bowen-Smith (1975); her husband, Ted (2007); her son-in-law, Graham Oben (2014); and her younger sister and only sibling, Clowie Jickling (2023) (Ray Jickling).

Dorothy will forever lovingly be remembered and deeply missed by her family and remaining friends. May she eternally rest in peace.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Dorothy’s family here.

In living memory of Dorothy, 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.