Dorothy Irene Mereu (née Hampton)

In her 95th year passed on January 28, 2025, in the loving company of family into the next stage of her journey, where she will be reunited with husband John (2019) and the many relatives and friends who left before her. She is survived by her children Ev (Phil), Tim (Shannon), Matt (Janine); grandchildren Erin (Allan), Rechelle, Alex (Soraya), Mike (Elyse), Jenn Irene (Curtis), and Julianna; great-grandchildren Caris, Clara, Miles, Eddie, and Max.

Dorothy lived a full and purposeful life. Her life was defined by her willingness and capacity to give selflessly to others, particularly to those in greatest need. She spent decades of her life volunteering with various organizations, including The London Psychiatric Hospital, Hutton House, University Hospital Oncology Clinic, and by providing respite care to families of palliative patients. Her service to the community also frequently included extended family and friends of her children. Dorothy provided non-judgemental support to anyone in need. If the value of a life can be measured by what one gives to others versus what they take from them, then Dorothy lived to a very high standard.

Along with her late husband John, much of Dorothy’s life centred around the community of her church. There her spirit was nourished and her faith re-energized on a weekly basis. It is also where, among other places, she built many deep and enduring friendships. Because of her faith and because of at least one significant experience, Dorothy was unafraid of death and believed that she would one day return home. That day has finally arrived.

Family was by far the most important thing in Dorothy’s life. Her presence was immeasurably significant to her children, grandchildren, in-laws, and countless others who have been connected to the family. She was a very special person to her six grandchildren, all of whom consistently felt nourished and loved by her. Each of her four granddaughters has inherited the “nanny gene” and have pursued work in caring professions.

Dorothy also had a great sense of humour. Whether she was making funny faces, speaking in funny voices, or entertaining us with her imitation of teenage dancing, she would often make us laugh – or groan. Her comical side even emerged at times from the fog of dementia.

We are immensely grateful to the staff at Arbor Trace Memory Care Facility, where mom spent the last three years of her life. The love and care she received on a daily basis by all staff was beyond amazing. Thank you!

We love you mom, nanny, GGma, friend, Dorothy. We are so grateful to have had you in our lives. We will miss you more than words can say. Until we meet again.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Monday, February 3 at 1:00 p.m. with visitation from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Westview Funeral Home, 709 Wonderland Road North in London.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dorothy’s memory to the Canadian Mental Health Association.