WAKEFIELD, Dorothy Maria
Age at Death: 24
Rank Corporal
Unit Royal Canadian Air Force Women’s Division
Service Number W300100
Place of Burial Brandon Cemetery, Brandon MB
Date of Birth 1920.05.12
Place of Birth Brandon MB
Enlistment December 11, 1941, Winnipeg MB
Date of Death 1945.05.11
Daughter of Walter and Ingred Wakefield, of Brandon
Dorothy Wakefield was an exceptional airwoman whose life was cut short through a tragic accident. Dorothy was cycling home at night, with no light on her bike, when she was struck and killed by a car that was blinded by the lights of an oncoming vehicle. The inquest determined that there was no fault on anyone’s part, it was simply a tragic accident.
Dorothy’s file shows what is a common theme: grieving parents wanting their daughter’s belongings back. In this case, Dorothy’s parents wanted her bicycle back, and if it needed repair they expected George Cantlon, the driver, to pay for the repairs. Their anger and frustration comes through in the letter, as they inquire after what consequences Mr. Canton faced, and seemed unaware of the coroner’s findings.
