Tribute

In Loving Memory of Claire Marie Dumas
December 8, 1946 – January 24, 2026

Claire Marie Dumas passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026, in Oliver, British Columbia, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 79 years old. Claire lived a life rich in creativity, dedication, and love, leaving behind a legacy of artistry, hard work, and deep bonds.

Born on December 8, 1946, Claire was an artsy soul through and through. She held a degree in Fine Arts and had a remarkable eye for design, beauty, and detail. Art was not simply something she studied—it was how she saw and experienced the world. She loved to read, surf the web, and keep her mind sharp with endless puzzles. Gardening was another of her passions, and she spent countless hours perfecting her yard, which became a reflection of her patience, creativity, and talent.

Claire was also a fiercely hardworking woman. She was a self-employed contractor painter who worked side by side with her husband, Hector, for 25 years. Together, this husband-and-wife duo built an outstanding reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship and quality of work throughout the Peace River and Grande Prairie area.  Known for their integrity, work ethic, and pride in their craft, Claire and Hector worked tirelessly right up until retirement.

Once retired, they embraced adventure wholeheartedly. For many years, Claire and Hector enjoyed RV living on their lake lot in Faust, Alberta, snowbirding their way to the Okanagan. Over the last 12 years, they made Southern BC their permanent home. There, they cherished late-night campfires, glasses of wine, and laughter shared with dear friends.

Claire found joy in life’s simple rhythms, especially walking her beloved fur baby, Tnz, who was her constant companion for 12 treasured years.

One of the most profound moments of Claire’s life came during a trip to Europe.  Her artistic passion led her to Paris, where she climbed the stairs of the Musée d’Orsay to see the works of her greatest inspiration, Vincent van Gogh. Standing before his paintings, Claire was completely mesmerized, tears streaming down her face—a moment of pure connection between the artist she admired and the art she lived for. It was a memory that captured Claire’s soul perfectly.

Claire leaves to mourn her loving husband of 63 years, Hector Dumas, and her cherished companion, Tnz of 12 years.  She will be deeply missed by her children: Karen (Lorne), Jacquelyne (Wayne), and Leanne; her grandchildren: Tryston Dumas-Felix, Lucas Dumas, Dariyan Hatch, and Kaleb Hatch; and her great-grandson, Allister Mansell-Dumas. She is also survived by her sister, Lucille Roy.

She was predeceased by her father, Gustave Hebert (1990); her mother, Jacqueline (Rioux) (2000); and her brothers Louis (2016), Homer (1994), and Paul (2023).

Claire will be remembered for her artistic soul, unwavering work ethic and devotion to friends and family.  She leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity and cherished moments that will never fade.

The family asks that you perform a random act of kindness in Claire’s memory.

The family also appreciates your kind thoughts and support during this time.