Mabel Romaine "Romy" Chappell

In Loving Memory

With family by her side, Romaine passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 9, 2026, at the age of 93 in Arnprior.

Former wife of the late Louis Dotto. Devoted mother of Laurie (Karen) of Richmond, Marty (Karen) of Arnprior, Tony (Melissa) of Florida, and Dan (Elaine) of Niagara Falls. Cherished Nanny of Trevor (Sandra) of Strathroy, Taryn of Toronto, Hilary (Matt) of Ottawa, Stephanie (Chris) of Ottawa, Kyle (Audrey) of Ottawa, her Russian "princess," Alissa (Isabel) of Ottawa, and great-grandchildren Athena, Apollo, Joey, Aiden, and Liam. Beloved sister of Barrie (Sue) of England. Adored daughter of the late George and Wendy Chappell. Romaine's memory will always be cherished by her nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Born in England and educated at the Convent of Notre Dame, Romy cared deeply for people, animals, and the environment, and abhorred injustice of all kinds. She spent many years of her life helping prisoners, youth, individuals with developmental disabilities, and numerous Christian causes.

When the family moved north from Toronto in 1970, she was a teacher at the Valley East Nursery School and was responsible for starting the Capreol Hockey Mothers, as well as re-forming the Capreol Cub Scout Pack. In 1979, Romaine established the St. Leonard's Halfway House for federal parolees in Sudbury, where many were encouraged to embrace a whole new lifestyle. Her concern for youth led her to spearhead the Capreol Youth Centre and the Capreol Child Care Centre.

Romy sat on numerous boards and worked at the Bread & Roses Food Bank. She was a member of Cursillos-in-Christianity and Youth Encounter, and of Our Lady of Peace Church, where she sang in the choir, as well as the Capreol Community Choir. Romy was a longtime member of the Valley East Arthritis Support Group, served as secretary of the board for the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum, and enjoyed acting with the Trinity Players and Valley Community Theatre.

Romaine was also an avid gardener, genealogist, and swimmer. She always thanked God for the gift of her precious sons, their wives, and for being a part of the lives of her six cherished grandchildren and her precious great-grandchildren.

Many thanks to Dr. Fishman who provided great care and support to Romaine in the last year. Thanks to Ontario Health at Home, Bayshore Palliative Care team and the amazing supportive employees of Island View Retirement Residence for assisting Romaine in this last chapter of her life.

Cremation has taken place, family and friends are invited to celebrate Romy's life on Friday, September 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Philip Parish in Richmond, Ontario. A reception will take place at the church following the service.

Memorial donations to Greenpeace or the Canadian Wildlife Federation are appreciated.