Dorothy M. Grefe, age 82, of Merrill, passed away Sunday, April 27, 2014 at Pine Crest Nursing Home under the care of Dr. Kate Hospice.
She was born June 27, 1931 in Merrill to the late Joseph and Gertrude (Becker) Stockowitz. She and George Grefe were united in marriage on March 8, 1952 in Merrill. He preceded her in death on March 13, 2007.
Dorothy received her education from the Sisters at Holy Cross School. In her younger years, she worked at Weinbrenner. Dorothy then became a CNA and dedicated over 30 years to Holy Cross Hospital, now Good Samaritan Health Center. She was an avid reader, her favorites being romance novels and Amish books. Dorothy enjoyed playing dominos, Bingo and Bunco. She loved traveling, enjoying a trip to Branson and a cruise with her husband. She also went on a River Cruise on the Mississippi with some family members. Dorothy was a music lover, Country Music and Polkas were her preferences. She also kept entertained watching the Packers – “Go Pack Go!” – Wisconsin Badger football, Brewer Games and NASCAR. When she became a resident of Pine Crest, Dorothy enjoyed spending her time doing activities with the other residents. She was a member of St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ.
Survivors include her daughter: Susan (Joan Schiller) Grefe, Merrill; son: Jim (Char) Grefe, Merrill; In-laws: Dennis (LuAnn) Grefe, William (Judy) Grefe and Mary Grefe, all of Merrill; many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews; and many good friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband of 55 years, George Grefe, and four brothers, Kenneth (Donna) Stockowitz, William (Janice) Stockowitz, James Stockowitz and Eugene “Gene” Stockowitz.
A funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 1, at Waid Funeral Home. Pastor Missy Holdorf will officiate. Visitation will be Thursday from 4-7 p.m., also at the funeral home. Inurnment will be at a later date. Memorials may be made in Dorothy’s name to Pine Crest-Activities Department or to St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ.
Waid Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.