Dorothy Vanatta

Dorothy Marie Tiedje was born on September 13, 2008 in Northville, SD, the daughter William Carl and Hulda Christine (Spathman) Tiedje. At the age of four Dorothy and her family moved to Lynd, MN and later to Franklin, MN where her parents farmed. She attended school at Franklin. He family then moved to Grove City, MN. On March 23 1929 Dorothy was united in marriage to Elbert Sloan Vanatta in Davenport, IA. The couple moved to Milwaukee, WI where they were both employed until their retirement in 1968. Dorothy operated a blueprint machine for Cutler Hammer Manufacturing and later became a supervisor in the company. Following retirement they moved to Finland, MN to be closer to family and enjoy the north woods. In 1978 Dorothy and Elbert moved to Alexandria, MN. They spent many winters in Mission, TX. Following Elbert?s death in 1988 Dorothy continued driving herself down to Texas each year until she reached age ninety-two years. Dorothy has resided at Lakes Area Assisted Living since 2004. Dorothy enjoyed traveling; she has traveled to every state in the continental United States. She enjoyed calling Bingo for other residents at LAAL. Dorothy liked to do craft work, knitting and crocheting. She also enjoyed cooking and baking. Dorothy was a member of Bethesda Lutheran Church and the Order of the Eastern Star. On Wednesday, August 20, 2008 Dorothy died at the age of ninety-seven years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elbert, her only sister, Ella Read and brother-in-law, William Read, Sr.; two nephews, William Read., Jr. and Jack Raetz; great-nephew, Tony Martell; and several other relatives and friends. Dorothy is survived by her niece Joan (Roy) Martell of Alexandria, MN; nephew, Vernon Read of Atwater, MN; and several great, great-great and great-great- great nieces & nephews. She will be missed by many. A funeral service was held on Monday, August 25, 2008 at Bethesda Lutheran Church in Alexandria. Reverend Marilee Bergerson officiated. Mark Graf provided music. Interment followed at Evergreen Cemetery in Alexandria. Casket bearers included Roy Martell, Troy Martell, Vernon Read, Bart Read, Jeff Raetz and Joe Raetz. Honorary casket bearers included Dorothy?s several great, great-great and great-great- great nieces & nephews. Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria.