Dorothy Mae (nee Stevenson) Darch, 82, of Claresholm, Alberta, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026, at the Willow Creek Continuing Care Centre.
Dorothy was born in Claresholm on February 13, 1944, to Leo and Hazel Stevenson. She was raised east of Claresholm on the family farm and ranch, where her lifelong passion for horses, cattle, and grain farming began.
She attended Starline School and later, high school in Claresholm. Dorothy left school early to pursue an apprenticeship in cosmetology, setting the foundation for the strong work ethic she carried all her life.
During her marriage to Roy Darch, they welcomed one daughter, Paula. Later, Dorothy made her home west of Claresholm with her longtime partner, Doug Mills, where she embraced ranch life and remained until moving to Willow Creek Continuing Care. Dorothy enjoyed spending time with Doug’s family, including his children, Doug Jr. (Renee and their children Baylee & Wyatt); and Terry. She especially loved travelling with them, with many memorable trips including New Zealand and Las Vegas.
Dorothy worked in several local businesses over the years, including a hair salon, a western wear store, a saddle shop, and most notably, more than 30 years at The Video Place, where she became a familiar and friendly face in the community.
She was deeply involved in the Claresholm 4-H horse club for many years and was well known for her exceptional baking and beautiful wedding and birthday cakes. Her creativity extended to her artwork and handpainted birthday and Christmas cards, which her family will cherish forever.
A significant part of Dorothy’s life was caring for her parents, Leo and Hazel, in their later years. She cared for them with a level of kindness and dedication that was remarkable.
Dorothy also enjoyed spending time with her daughter, Paula and soninlaw Dave, and she loved the simple pleasures of daytoday life with her family. Baking, visiting, and Sunday family dinners were moments she looked forward to and valued.
Dorothy loved spending time with her grandchildren, Brad (Lyndsay) and Danielle (Austen), and was an important part of their daily lives. She treasured family trips to the Calgary Stampede and took great pride in watching Brad and Lyndsay continue the family farm. In her later years, she appreciated the time spent recovering from knee and hip surgeries in Danielle and Austen’s home in Lethbridge.
She was overjoyed to become a greatgrandmother to Raylee, who brought her immense happiness.
Dorothy will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, sense of fun, and the deep love she had for her family and friends.
She will be dearly missed.
There will be no service, at Dorothy’s request. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Claresholm & District Transportation Society or the Willow Creek Continuing Care Centre.
Messages of condolence for the family may be left at www.prairierosefunerals.ca