Dolly was born into a large family in a small fishing community near Curling, Newfoundland. At an early age, her independent spirit inspired her to move across Canada, where she eventually settled on the West Coast.
Dolly was predeceased by her husband, Jack, in 1982, and is survived by her sons; Mike (Penny) and grandchildren Matthew and Megan; Doug (Cory); John (Leslie Slater); daughter, Barbara (Ian Simpson) and granddaughter, Olivia.
She was very close with all four of her children. A visit to her Victoria store, “The Cotton Club” would always include conversations about the lives and careers of her family. Dolly established her own silver jewellery and cotton clothing business, initially in Nanaimo, and then in Victoria, where she worked for the last 37 years. She was very knowledgeable regarding silver jewellery, and especially enjoyed interacting with the local First Nations artists. The Cotton Club was Dolly’s passion, and she was well known throughout the business community. She had a lively, fun personality in all her dealings with her customers and suppliers.
Dolly was a kind and compassionate person, especially to individuals and animals in need.
Dolly travelled extensively throughout South East Asia, Europe, Canada and the U.S. with her family and friends, successfully mixing business with pleasure. She was sharp-minded and spirited, and always up for a competitive game of cards with her friends and family.
A special thank you to the medical team of doctors, nurses, volunteers and support staff at the B.C. Cancer Agency and on VGH 6N for all the support and kindness extended to Dolly throughout her illness. The family also wish to thank the B.C. Ambulance Service and Father Dean Henderson.
Dolly received great solace through prayer and attending mass. At her request, a funeral Mass will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Parish, 4049 Gordon Head Road, Victoria, on Monday, September 18th at 1 pm, with light refreshments to follow.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
17 Responses
I was just thinking about Dolly recently and wanted to aknowlege her passing be it 5 years ago.I loved Dolly’s humour and great practical wisdom.
Thank you Dolly for being such a good friend and always caring about my family and goals.
Love Ragnhild Flakstad
Our heartfelt condolences are extended to all who knew and loved Dolly. What an inspirational lady!!!!
We will certainly miss visiting with Dolly in Victoria and Chemainus. We shared many good laughs and
stories. She was so proud and thankful for
her supportive family. There was not a visit that we did not hear about you all. Dolly purchased jewellery
and clothing from my husband and I over the last 20 years. She always enjoyed talking of her travels and
family. Working in her shop gave her such joy- meeting people from all walks of life, and being a wonderful
saleswoman. Her support of first nations artists will be missed as will those who just enjoyed stopping
in at Cotton Club to have a chat. May you find solace in knowing Dolly loved you all dearly. Her life was
full and she had so much to give to all. Best wishes, Tom and Barb Lowen
Barbara and Family,
When I read of your Mothers passing, I was saddened, my impression of her was that of a neat ,wise lady.
Bob Karagianis
Our condolences to the Bond family at this very sad time. We always enjoyed our visits to your mom’s store. Loved hearing her stories and getting Asia travel advise from her. She always spoke so proudly of her children and their partners. Dolly was such a lovely lady and an inspiration to us. We will miss her.
Don and Chris McNeill
To the Bond Family: I was very sad to read that Dolly had passed away. I frequented Dolly’s shop often. I loved visiting with her – she was a great lady and we had many chats about everything really and she was always interested in what was going on with me. I will miss visiting her and her store very much. She was truly very special and unique. Condolences to all of you at this time.
Carol Attfield
We are so sad to hear of Dolly’s passing. She will be greatly missed. She always had great stories to tell, so many I can’t remember them all. Her and Doreen had great laughs together, she will miss her very much. Lisa and John Sherrah and Doreen More.
I met Dolly this summer when I stopped by her store. I was curious as I hadn’t been in the store for decades. We had a lovely chat and I left feeling like I had met someone very special. I am sorry to hear about Dolly’s passing but her family can be comforted that she certainly was a person that made friends out of strangers. I know I left her shop with a smile and the thought that I hope I have her energy and spirit if I am fortunate to live to her age.
Warmly,
Carolin