Dorothy Smigelski
August 6, 1927 - July 8, 2025
Dorothy Agnes Smigelski passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, at the age of 97 in the Oyen long-term care facility, surrounded by her family.
Dorothy was born on August 6, 1927, in Nicolaeff, Russia, to her parents Nick and Rose, who immigrated to Canada in 1929; Dorothy was the second oldest of seven children.
In 1946, Dorothy married the love of her life, Peter Smigelski. Together, they farmed side by side through both the good times and the hard, raising eight children and taking pride in the growing family they built. Dorothy was known for her love of cooking, endless baking of crumb cake and cookies, her tidy home, and her tireless work ethic. On more than one occasion, you could find her hauling grain from the combine while her children napped on the floorboards of the grain truck. She often tended to her garden at the farm, where she spent hours planting, picking, and ensuring her family always had fresh vegetables on the table and a pantry full of canned goods. In the winter, that same garden was flooded and transformed into a hockey rink, providing endless hours of fun for her children and creating cherished family memories.
Dorothy was the definition of a devoted farm wife. She worked tirelessly alongside Pete, not only in the fields but also helping care for the cattle and horses. Whether it was feeding livestock, assisting with branding, or lending a steady hand in the barn, she embraced every part of farm life with strength, resilience, and quiet determination all while wearing a dress.
In 2000, Pete and Dorothy moved from their beloved farm home into their house in Oyen.
She volunteered countless hours within the community, dedicating her time to the Catholic Women’s League and actively supporting the long-term care bingo games and various events. Her commitment brought joy and companionship to many, making a meaningful impact on those around her.
Dorothy had a true love for fashion, often coming home with a bag full of purchases. She never hesitated to wear her heels, even on icy sidewalks, simply because she found them comfortable.
She loved nothing more than a game of baseball in the yard with her children or grandchildren. No matter the weather, distance, or sport, Dorothy never missed a single game, meet, or event; always cheering from the sidelines. And without fail, after every game, the children could always count on a toonie or loonie, handed out with a proud smile. Family was of the greatest importance to her - she was so proud of all her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
Anyone who knew Dorothy admired her pride and dignity; she carried herself with grace and strength throughout her life. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Julie (Bill) Martin, Dwayne (Jo Ann), Len, Dean, Randall, Lyle (Karen), Glen (JoAnne) and Rhonda (Pat) Mills; grandchildren Nelson, Russell, Audra, Stacey, Brad, Kent, Braden, Jarvis, Jayce, Travis, Ryan, Jordan, Adele, Sheena, Kristyn, Kira, Cortney, Terrin, Garin, Chelsea, Ryland, and Mitchell; and 31 great grandchildren and counting.
Dorothy was predeceased by her loving husband of 68 years, Pete Smigelski; her parents, Nick and Rose Hertz; siblings Lydia, Emilie, Ralph, Rosie, and Margery. She is survived by her brother, Danny.
Memorial Donations may be directed to the Sacred Heart R.C Church in Oyen Ab
Prayer Services were held on Thursday July 10, 2025 and Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday July 11, 2025 with Father Rodel officiating. Services were held at Sacred Heart R.C Church.
Funeral Arrangements in the care of MacLeans Funeral home in Oyen, AB.
To leave messages of condolence, or to send memorial donations thru the obituary please visit ofsmacleans.com