June 14, 1944 – March 11, 2019
at the age of 74 years
“Dot”, as she was fondly called by friends and family, had a great love for teaching school and did so for 33 years. She travelled extensively and loved the arts, theatre, music and classic movies. She was a loving, generous person who supported various charities concerned with rendering aid to people and animals in distressing circumstances.
She was survived by her sisters Louise Whelan and Barbara Hunt, her nieces Denise, Dawn, Alison and nephew Bradley.
She was predeceased by her father and mother, Robert and Muriel Burns, her brother Herald Burns and her son, Andre Szalanski.
Dot will be greatly missed by her friends and family.
She did not want any ceremony but wished for her ashes to be scattered at a later date.
it was with great sadness that I learned of the death of my old friend Dot. We spent one unforgettable summer hitch hiking around Europe in 1967, and remained in touch for many years afterwards. I will not forget her kindness, her warm heart and strong opinions – not to mention the wonderful dinners she love to cook for all her friends when she lived in Delta. Yes I remember Tiddles, and all the other Tiddles that came in sucession!
Dot came to school in Oliver from Okanagan Falls. We had many good times together. She always sent a Chistmas card she had made. Wonderful friend and talented lady RIP
My sincere sympathies to Louise and Barb and their families. My best memories of growing up are spending time at the Burns home just over the hill from where I lived. Louise and I were in the same grade and Dorothy older and Barbie younger. We had many good times together. Dorothy, Louise, my sister Sandy and myself all sang in the school choir. We all graduated from Southern Okanagan Secondary School in Oliver, B.C. Good memories, good friendships…RIP Dorothy..your rest is well deserved…Brenda
Dot and I were friends for many years. We took watercolour painting classes together here in Vernon and Enderby, shared vegetarian cooking, fed the ducks at Polson Park, and shared many hours enjoying our gardens. We went shopping for cat food and groceries and I do know that Dot loved her cat Tiddles. Dot was a gracious hostess in her home and was a warm and generous person. So many memories of a dear and kind lady……
We met Dot through an afternoon seniors’ social group. I volunteer with the group and my husband drove Dot to and from the social. Dot was a very
soft spoken lady with a kind word for all her associates at the afternoon functions. We certainly enjoyed knowing her. We also visited with her during her last
stay in hospital and she was always very appreciative of our visits. May she rest in peace.
Dot, your quiet spirit and generous heart will be remembered by all who shared classes with you. I will always cherish the wonderful painting you gifted me. It is a constant reminder of your quietness, your talent and your generosity. You will never be forgotten. May you find peace in the arms of the angels. Linda DeBelser
We fondly remember Dot who started the Vernon Singles Group…2003/4 we enjoyed the hiking and events she planned.
May she rest in peace