A Legacy of Giving: The Story of Dulce Eva Gould
From the prairies of Saskatchewan to the coastal gardens of Victoria, Dulce Eva Gould‘s century-long journey was marked by a spirit of generosity that continues to touch lives even after her passing. Born in 1921 in Unity, Saskatchewan, Dulce embodied the essence of giving.
In the 1930s, Dulce began her lifelong mission as an educator, travelling to rural communities as a young teacher. Often working for little more than room and board, she brought creativity and joy to her classrooms. Later, her creation of “Mac the Rat,” a character whose illustrated stories captivated young readers across Canada, exemplified her innovative approach to inspiring a love of learning.
When World War II called, Dulce answered, serving in the Women’s Division of the Royal Canadian Air Force as a wireless operator in Newfoundland. Though modest about her wartime contribution, this experience deepened her commitment to service—a commitment that would guide her throughout her life.
Her pursuit of knowledge led her to the University of Toronto, where she earned her Master’s degree before embarking on an international teaching career. More than an educator, she became a mentor and friend to countless students who still remember her wisdom, humour, and dedication.
Victoria, BC, became her home in the 1980s, where she discovered new avenues for giving. As a docent at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, she shared her passion for culture with visitors.
Known affectionately as “Auntie D,” Dulce’s family knew her as a wellspring of wisdom and warmth. Her home was a gathering place where love was expressed through home-cooked meals, shared music, and the companionship of her beloved dogs, Patches and Frisky. Even in her later years, she continued to nourish her community—both literally, through her legendary soups, and spiritually, through her unwavering support and encouragement.
Dulce passed away at age 100 on November 4th, 2021, but her story didn’t end there. Through a transformative bequest to United Way, she ensured that her legacy of giving would continue to flourish. This final act of generosity perfectly captured the essence of a woman who understood that true wealth lies not in what we keep, but in what we share with others.
Her life stands as a testament to the power of everyday generosity—proving that a legacy of giving isn’t measured in dollars and cents, but in the lives we touch and the love we share.
Through United Way, Dulce’s spirit of compassion will continue to inspire and support community initiatives for generations to come.
We would whole heartly thank and remember Dulce on National Philanthropy Day: your lifetime of service, has left a legacy of giving.