Obituary of Dorothy Eileen Sibbitt

Dorothy Eileen Sibbitt, aged 70, of Ottawa, Ontario, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She will be forever cherished and remembered by her devoted husband, Patricio Miguel Bonnilla; her beloved children, Sarah Amelia Raymond (Philippe Landel) and Emily Eileen Ielo (née Raymond) (Bruno Ielo); her precious grandchildren, Damian Capone Ielo, Dominic Giovanni Donald Ielo, and Yolina Grace Landel; and her three siblings, Evelyn Patricia MacKenzie (née Sibbitt), Beverley Joyce Sibbitt and Bruce Edgar Sibbitt, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Dorothy touched the lives of all who knew her and will be deeply missed.

Predeceased by her parents, Major Louis Edgar Sibbitt and Grace Amelia Sibbitt (née Harris), Dorothy lost her mother at the tender age of six and spent much of her life longing for her presence. Despite the absence of a motherly role model, Dorothy exemplified what it means to be a devoted, selfless mother and grandmother, showing constant love and support.  Her love for her family was boundless, and she was immensely proud of her daughters, Sarah and Emily, often expressing admiration for the wonderful mothers they had become.

In 1977, Dorothy Graduated from Guelph University’s Food Science Program with a Bachelor of Science. She devoted her entire career to food research for Agriculture Canada where she met many friends and loved ones. 

The family cottage held a special place in Dorothy’s heart and continues to be a cherished gathering place today. She spent her childhood summers there with her parents and siblings, and carried on that tradition with her children and grandchildren. 

She had an unparalleled zest for life, which she expressed through her love of travel.  Her adventures took her to more than 50 countries, enriching her life and broadening her understanding of different cultures; she was always ready to experience the world in its fullness.

Dorothy embraced every moment.  Her love for art, the outdoors and adventure were apparent though her enjoyment of theater, skiing, water skiing, cycling and so many other activities. After retirement, she even followed in her father’s footsteps and took up flying lessons. She cultivated friendships in everything she did, adding to the vibrant tapestry of her life.

Her friendships were marked by deep connections, laughter, kindness, empathy, and shared adventures. Dorothy was intelligent, strong, fearless, and fun-loving.  She was a beautiful soul, both inside and out, and an inspiration to all who knew her.

Dorothy, you were taken from us too soon, but your spirit will always be with us, especially in the places and moments we shared – you will be deeply missed. Until we meet again, rest in peace.

A celebration of life will be held in Dorothy’s Memory.

All are welcome to pay their condolences and celebrate her life.

Sunday, August 25, 2024

2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

allsaintsottawa

allsaintsottawa.ca

330 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON K1N 6P9

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dorothy’s memory to the following organizations: The Ottawa Hospital; the Canadian Red Cross; or the Nature Conservancy of Canada.