Dorothy Louise Luten

Dorothy Luten (November 15, 1939 - May 7, 2006) 

It is with extremely heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dorothy Luten on May 7th, 2026. A long time Victoria resident and active community member, she was born in Los Angeles and moved to Vancouver Island as a child, spending the rest of her days here. She had an unparalleled zest for life, sense of adventure and deep curiosity about everything.

 An avid gardener, the places she lived always bloomed brightly, and many still do. She was always happy to share her plants, seeds and knowledge with other gardeners, cultivating many friendships. She worked tirelessly to ensure pollinators had plants to thrive on, and her gardens were always frequented by an array of butterflies, moths, bees, and hummingbirds, among other creatures. 

An animal lover with countless pets of her own over the years (Dover, Pesky, Tramp, Sugar Ray, Rufus, Fergie, Orlando and Spud among them), and she cat and dog sat for many more. Always found with dog biscuits in her pocket, even when she didn’t have a dog of her own, she was known and loved by many of her neighbourhood dogs. 

She had a varied career working at the Royal Bank in the 1960’s, Burrard Yarrows Shipyard in the 1980’s, and later at a number of local bookshops including Poor Richard’s Books, where she could often be found behind the large antique desk surrounded by books and often accompanied by a cat. 

She was always happy to lend a hand and volunteered with countless organizations and at many events around Victoria over the years. In later years she lamented no longer being able to cook pancakes at the Swiftsure and Fernfest breakfasts and some of the more physical tasks she had previously enjoyed, but she always found a way to help somehow. 

She will be greatly missed by friends, her daughter and beloved grandson. And she will be remembered for her laugh, her smile and her great generosity. 

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm, World Central Kitchen or a charity of your choice. 

Please share memories and any images you have. 

A celebration of life will be held, likely in July - date and details to follow.