Tracey Maureen Dorman, April 25, 1957 – May 18, 2026

A Beautiful Soul, is now soaring with the Angels on a new journey of Bliss and Joy… Too Young, Too Soon. Tracey and Dean met in Nanaimo 25 years ago (thanks Roxanne) and moved to Gabriola in 2007. Tracey grew up in Harewood Nanaimo with her siblings Gail, Sandra, and Shane. In grade one she met her lifelong friend and bestie Leanne Mawhinney (Leanne’s hubby Ron Frank became a great friend too). Her parents now deceased were Fay Dorman (nee Collin’s) and Reg Dorman of Nanaimo. She is survived by her daughter Tessa Leanne Dorman-Kotzer and her loving spouse, Dean Nikkel.Tracey had terrific memories of herself and Leanne riding their horses Candy and Lady, as well as long summer days at their family cabin at Cameron Lake. Tracey was also passionate about animals, both wild and domestic. Amongst her favorite are two very loving cats Bella and Gigi, our thoroughbred Libby and our mini horse Lilly. Others include Nappy, Cleo, Oscar, Freckles, Chloe our faithful black lab Jesse and her little cohort Ricky. Tracey will be fondly remembered by her co workers on Gabriola. She worked as a home care nurse for the elderly on Gabriola for 7 years and most recently at the Gabriola Golf Club where she made the very best Nacho’s. Tracey had a huge passion for life and especially enjoyed beach combing and swimming on Spring beach. She also enjoyed music, dancing, gardening, golfing and 8 ball (which she became very good at) darts (a 180 medal). Her passion in life was Art, both learning and creating. She loved painting fashion and angels. Her talent has been passed onto her daughter Tessa along with her character, strength, wisdom, smile, love of animals and passion for art. A huge Thank You to the Doctors, Nurses, and home support Staff on Gabriola and the most wonderful staff and volunteers at the NRGH Palliative unit. You truly helped Tracey’s transition with your kindness, professionalism, and LOVE. Dean says, “Tracey taught me about the giving and receiving of love. She taught me how to love. A celebration of Tracey’s life and art will be held at the Gabriola Golf Club on Sunday August 23 at 2 p.m. In honour of Tracey’s memory, please hug your loved ones an extra second or two, take a minute with Mother Earth, be calm, be kind, be happy and leave them with A wink, A smile and a kiss!

• Date : 2026-05-18
• Location : Nanaimo, BC