Dorothy (Backman) Hunter

HUNTER: Dorothy Salome Hunter (nee Backman) passed away peacefully at the Assiniboine Centre in Brandon, MB, on Tuesday, June 11, 2024. Dorothy was born to Gudni and Charlotte (Vera) Backman on December 20, 1939, at the family home on a farm near Clarkleigh, MB.  She spent her childhood years with her parents, grandparents, and siblings on this farm, which was 5 miles from Lundar along the old #6 Highway.

Dorothy attended Lundar School for grades 1 to 12, graduating in 1957. For her, attending school was pure joy. She had total respect and admiration for all her teachers. They were incredibly dedicated and instilled in her a love of learning.

Dorothy graduated with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Manitoba in 1960. Her majors were Chemistry, Mathematics, and Geography. She graduated with a Bachelor of Education from the University of Manitoba in 1964.

Growing up Dorothy always wanted to be a teacher. She began her teaching career at Winnipegosis Collegiate in 1960, where she taught Chemistry, Physics, Science, and all-girls Physical Education. In 1963, she moved to Virden, MB to teach Chemistry and all-girls Physical Education at Virden Collegiate Institute (VCI). While in Virden, she loved teaching and enjoyed coaching volleyball, track and field, badminton, cheerleading, and folk dance.

On July 23, 1966, in Winnipeg she married another VCI Science teacher, the late David (Keith) Hunter (d. 2003). They built and moved into their turquoise forever home, continued to teach at VCI, and embarked on some travel adventures before starting a family. Dorothy and Keith enjoyed over 35 years of marriage together and raised two sons, Douglas and Grant, and one daughter, Kristi Ann. It’s a reassuring thought that Dorothy may now be reunited with Keith after over 21 years of missing him terribly.

Dorothy retired from teaching in 1970 but never stopped teaching as she was a substitute teacher and Chemistry tutor for 25 years. During this time, she spent 5 years as a Supervisor of Student Teachers for Brandon University. She enjoyed working with these young, enthusiastic future teachers. At home, Dorothy ensured many learning opportunities and experiences were available to Douglas, Grant, and Kristi Ann.  She encouraged education to be a priority for them just as her mom had done for her and her siblings.

Over the years, she was an active community member in various churches and choirs; the Virden Music and Arts Festival; the Virden Figure Skating Club; Scouts and Girl Guides; and the Southwest Assiniboine Chapter of Retired Teachers.

Some of her favourite activities and pastimes were knitting; attending church; playing the piano, organ, and accordion; walks, coffee, and drives in the country with Keith or groups of friends; sending and receiving cards and letters; chats with former students wherever she met them; attending performances at the Virden AUD Theatre; attending the Virden Music and Arts Festival; visits and phone calls with friends and family.  Almost every day she would have an evening call with her mom, Vera.  After Vera’s death, it was her brother, Charles, who Dorothy looked forward to having an end-of-day chat with. 

Dorothy was a faithful follower and ardent supporter of all the activities of her children. Her greatest joy was seeing their growth and development as they were influenced by their K-12 teachers and university professors and participated in many school and community events whether it be sports, music, or academics. 

Above all, being an Amma brought Dorothy the most joy. Her bright blue eyes sparkled the most when her grandchildren were around. Whether it was watching them play with her kid’s 1970s Fisher Price sets, getting ice cream, hearing them play piano, going to see their activities, or ensuring they knew she had their favourite treats, she so loved time with Finn, Olive, Jette, Bryar, and Reeve. Dorothy saved all her especially tight hugs just for them.

Dorothy was predeceased by her parents; husband Keith; brothers-in-law Lorne, Don, and Glen; and brother: Winston. She is survived by her children; Douglas, Grant (Tiffany), and Kristi Ann Aston (Blaine); brothers Charles and Earl (Candace); sisters-in-law Shirley Macleod, Louise, Jean, and Mimi Hunter; many nieces, nephews, and their families; and 5 precious grandchildren Finn, Olive, Jette, Bryar, and Reeve. This very caring lady, who always had an encouraging word, will be dearly missed by family and friends.

A private family Graveside Service was held at the Virden Cemetery on Saturday, August 10, 2024. Friends then joined the family from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s Anglican Church Hall (633 9th Ave. S.) for a time of fellowship and refreshments.

The family would like to thank the kind staff at the Brandon Regional Health Centre, Rivers Rehabilitation Centre, A2 & A3 of the Assiniboine Centre, and especially Dr. Fourie, for their compassionate care and support of Dorothy.

In lieu of flowers and trees, if friends desire, donations in memory of Dorothy can be directed to the Virden Music and Arts Festival (P.O. Box 2047, Virden, MB, R0M 2C0) or the Virden AUD Theatre (P.O. Box 1982, Virden, MB, R0M 2C0).

Your earthly sufferings are o'er.

May you rest in peace.

We love you, Mom.

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