Donelda Ruth (Negus) Dobson

Passed peacefully with family at her side after a short stay at Lee Manor on October 14, 2023. She was 91 years of age. Pre-deceased by her husband of 67 years, Ross, her father Fred, mother Eva, brother Alf and sisters Edith and Doris.

Donelda (Nell) was born and raised in Owen Sound where she spent a happy childhood although sadly, her beloved father died while she was still a teenager. Donelda met her future husband Ross dancing on the patio of his summer restaurant, the Crowd Inn, where he literally swept her off her feet.  They raised their family of four in Walkerton ( Karen, Kevin, Brian and David) an idyllic setting for family growth.  She worked alongside Ross in the restaurants at Sauble and Walkerton and was ever admired by staff for her gentle, fun leadership.  She loved helping them grow as workers and people.

Family was always the main focal point of Nell's life and she devoted endless energies into keeping members happy and healthy.  She was fast friends with her in-laws and had a full complement of nieces, nephews, grandchildren (Kaitlyn, Chelsea, Sam, Dan, Ella), great grandchild (Noah) and her children's spouses (Kate, Stan), all who will attest to being beneficiaries of her love and affection. She was ever praying for their well being. She was also a great lover of her various animal friends throughout the years.

Nell was a beautiful lady in all ways.  She loved the movies and looked like a movie star. She dressed with style and sparkle which mirrored her personality and shared that sparkle to light up the lives of all she encountered, whether a close friend or family member, or a grocery store clerk. She always made those she dealt with feel like they were oh-so-special and praiseworthy.  Donelda loved to dance and was also blessed with a beautiful singing voice that she showcased in church and pageants.  Her sense of humour, creativity, intelligence and strength drew people to her effortlessly. Although Nell was primarily a private person, whenever called upon, she lent her talents and energies to all good causes.

With semi-retirement, Nell and Ross took the opportunity to travel and spent many winters in Fort Myers, Fla., and summers at Sauble Beach, finally returning to Owen Sound when they fully retired.  She spent the final years of Ross's life tirelessly caring for him at their home. 

Donelda was the last remaining member of her immediate family to depart this world and will surely be celebrated by those waiting for her in the world to come. Her welcoming smile and graceful spirit will be sorely missed by those of us who knew and loved her. 

Special thanks to the warm and caring nurses and PSW's on First Floor, South, who made her brief stay during her final chapter so comfortable.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 from 10:00am until the time of the funeral service at 11:00am at the Tannahill Funeral Home, 1178 4th Ave West, Owen Sound , 519-376-3710.

Memorial donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.