Coffman, Dorothy (nee Binder)

Was born November 3, 1944. She died 11 p.m., Saturday, February 18, 2006. She will be deeply missed by her husband John Coffman, daughter Jennifer, husband Sean Cunningham and grandson Slade; daughter Karen, partner Ives Blanchet and grandchildren Gosia, Alex, and Nadia; her large extended family; and her family of friends. Dorothy was many things to many people, but everyone whose life she touched will tell you some part of the same story. How she loved words, music, and the magic of community - how she created it around her like some kind of living fabric - extraordinary lives intertwining. How she delighted in the wonder of life - created it, celebrated it, documented it, but most importantly, lived it. Dorothy did not just visit this world. Her life was full of family and friends, colour, light, laughter, times good and bad, and always, communion with fellow travellers. We will remember how she loved words, poetry, writing, music, singing, piano, photography, flowers, candles, and the colour blue. In her teaching position at Canadore College she was a mentor, advocate, and learner, and gained a deep appreciation of her aboriginal students and their culture. She actively contributed to the Arts community in North Bay for many years. She epitomized the spirit expressed by one of her favourite poets. "When it's over, I want to say: all my life I was a bride married to amazement. I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms" We will miss your spirit, but we cherish what you have left us. Family and friends will celebrate her life on Thursday, February 23 at 3:30 p.m. at "The Harbour" (corner of Lees Rd and Trout Lake Rd). Contributions in Dorothy's memory may be made to the Stephen Lewis Foundation (www.stephenlewisfoundation.org), or the Mennonite Central Committee's Aids Project (www.mcc.org/aids) or your charity.The family will welcome friends at home (896 Maplegrove Drive) today from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Funeral arrangements entrusted to HILLSIDE FUNERAL SERVICES (474-7655).