In Loving Memory of Dorothy Stapleton
September 12, 1952 – June 9, 2026

Dorothy Stapleton, also lovingly known as “Dor,” “Dorth,” “Mom”, “Mama,” and “Nana,” passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026, at the South Bruce Grey Health Centre, Kincardine, Ontario at the age of 73 with her family at her side.

She leaves behind her beloved son, Ben Ridley and his wife, Noriko Ridley, and her cherished granddaughter Olive Ridley. She is also survived by her loving daughter, Willow Carriere and her husband, Curtis Carriere, and her treasured grandchildren Shirley, Forest, and Mabel. Her family was a source of pride and joy in her life and above all else, Dorothy was a devoted mother and adoring grandmother.

Dorothy was born to the late Shirley Humphries and William Muhlig. She was the beloved wife of the late Calvin Andrew Stapleton and was predeceased by Peter Doerksen. Dorothy is lovingly remembered by Jim Ridley; her siblings, Russell (Elizabeth) of Ottawa, Barb (the late Doug) of Kincardine, Elaine (Brian) of Kincardine, and Lorne (Teresa) of Sarnia. She will also be dearly missed by her many nieces and nephews.

Born in Ottawa, Ontario, on September 12, 1952, Dorothy lived a life defined by compassion, resilience, and her steadfast commitment to her family and community.
Her journey began in the picturesque neighborhood of New Edinburgh, Ottawa, and extended westward to Calgary, Canmore, Medicine Hat, and Cochrane in Alberta, before making her way back east to Kincardine, Ontario.

Dorothy dedicated 28 years of service to the Government of Alberta as a Regional Child Development Specialist, advocating for children and families with remarkable dedication and professionalism. She built a career centered on helping others and enriching the lives of those around her. She went on to work as an Executive Assistant at the Kincardine Women’s Shelter and later as a Manager at the Kincardine Malcolm Place Retirement Home, where her kindness, organizational talents, and genuine care for people made a lasting impact not only on the lives of others but her own as well.

Dorothy found joy in life's simple pleasures, such as soaking up the sun and her enduring passions for volunteer work, gardening, and stained-glass art. She loved staying informed about current events, watching true-crime and courtroom shows. Her travels to Mexico, Hawaii, and across much of the western United States were dear to her, as she returned home with treasured memories and stories from each adventure. Dorothy also cherished the time spent with her many beloved pets over the years.

Dorothy will be remembered as a caring professional, a loyal friend, a loving mother, and an extremely proud grandmother. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored, the people she helped throughout her career, and the many lives she brightened through her kindness and compassion.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to those who cared for Dorothy and her family in her final days and to the all the friends and loved ones who supported her and throughout her life.
Dorothy’s love, wisdom, and the impact she had on our lives will remain with us forever. While her presence is deeply missed, the memories she created and the lessons she shared will continue to guide and comfort us. She will be loved forever, remembered always, and carried in our hearts every day.

A private funeral service will be held on July 7th, 2026, followed by Interment in the Kincardine Cemetery.

As expressions of Sympathy, donations to the Kincardine and Community Healthcare Foundation, and the Wingham Veterinary Clinic would be appreciated by the family. Donations and condolences may be made online at www.daveylinklaterfuneralhome.com.