Dorothy Ann (Opperman) Wilson passed away peacefully on April 30th, 2024, at the age of 92, in Kalamazoo, Michigan at Rose Arbor, Centrica. Dorothy was born on March 3rd, 1932, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to the late Edward and Jennie (Mason) Opperman. Dorothy grew up in the town of Hopkins, Michigan where she graduated from high school in 1951. She also attended Davenport College in Grand Rapids. Dorothy met her husband, Bill Wilson, in the early 50’s and they were married June 26, 1954, at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. Bill and Dorothy were married 63 wonderful years. He preceded her in death in 2017. Dorothy was the heart of her cherished family.
She is survived by her daughters Carol (Mike) O’Connor and Sally (Norm) Gant, Her grandchildren Katie (Mike) Montgomery, Chad Gant, Michael (Ramsay) O’Connor, and Kelli (Mike) Featherly; and her treasured great-grandchildren Addison Montgomery, Riley Montgomery, Rylen Gant, Owen O’Connor, and Liam O’Connor, Luke Featherly and Evan Featherly. Her great grandchildren affectionately called her Grandma-Great. Dorothy was employed at the Perrigo Company and also as a secretary in the Superintendent’s office at Hopkins Public School until her retirement in 1990. Her cooking was legendary among family and friends. Her chocolate chip cookies were simply the best.
She found immense pleasure in spending time and staying connected with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren using her iPad to FaceTime. It was a special way to bring them close even when afar. Summer vacations were a time for relaxation and joy as she and Bill rented a cottage on Gun Lake, creating memories that her family will hold dear forever. Later in their retirement years, they stayed the winter in Florida to enjoy the milder weather. A special chapter of Dorothy’s life was her unique and enduring friendship with Eleanor Milheim. Their daily phone calls were a testament to a bond that began in grade school and remained unbroken throughout the years.
Dorothy’s visitation will be Monday, May 6th, 2024, at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hopkins, Michigan. (2907 24th St.) The family will receive family and friends from 10:00am – 11:00am with the service starting at 11:00am officiated by Pastor Seelhoff. A private burial will take place at Maplewood Cemetery following the service. Luncheon and fellowship at The Silo will follow. (Grille House Restaurant- 1071 Highway M-40)
Donations in honor of Dorothy Wilson may be made To Rose Arbor Centrica or St Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hopkins.
