Dorothy E. Forgrave

Dorothy Forgrave, beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully Sunday morning, July 17, 2011.

Born on August 3, 1916, Dorothy Eleanor was the youngest of the Teel sisters of Lansing. Dorothy’s stories of growing up revealed a love for family and a vivacity that, rooted then, never withered over her 94 years.

Dorothy married William in 1939, who predeceased her in 1991.  Bill and Dottie were married for over fifty years and were dedicated parishioners of Central United Methodist Church.  Their children—Sharron (Lloyd Lerew), Holly (Roger LaPratt), Pam Watrous, Joan Forgrave, and Robert (Anne) Forgrave—have been blessed with a mother of exceptional wit, wisdom, warmth and steadfast faith.  She was a strong advocate of the “power of positive thinking” and of community volunteerism both of which she passed onto her progeny.  Dorothy was a dedicated volunteer with several organizations including Sparrow Hospital, where she helped found the Junior Division.

Antrim county (Torch Lake) became the family’s summer home for over fifty years. Dottie’s last weeks were spent on the cottage porch surrounded by her family. She spent her summers sailing and playing tennis into her 80s, then contented herself with watching her 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.  Dottie could be found on the porch, playing games with family and friends. Her great-grandchildren knew who to count on for Oreos before breakfast, and there was never a doubt—if the question was ice cream—as to Dottie’s answer.

A farewell gathering will be held at Central United Methodist Church in Lansing, at 12:00 noon on Friday, July 22, 2011. Visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. on July 21st at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. Donations to Central United Methodist Church or Hospice Advantage of Eaton County are welcome.

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5 Messages to “Dorothy E. Forgrave

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Mary Waller
July 18, 2011 at 3:40 pm

My condolences to all of the Forgrave family. Your Mother, Grandmother, Sister, was a remarkable woman. I don’t get to the club much- however every single year she would give me a big hug and a smile. Her warmth was just as contagious as her smile.
I am so glad she was able to come home to her cottage in Michigan.
She truly is an angel and you have all been blessed to have her in your life- truly a special lady.

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Amy Gabriel
July 18, 2011 at 8:25 pm

Grammy will be dearly missed. My family and I have many, many great memories of time spent at the cottage, where Grammy always graciously welcomed us. She was one in a million, and will be remembered with many fond thoughts of both time spent at the cottage and with her on many Thanksgiving holidays.

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Rachel Dwyer
July 19, 2011 at 5:30 pm

To Sharron, the girls, and the rest of the family please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

It is never easy to say good-bye but I am sure it was a blessing to be there with her. Hugs and kisses all around.

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Laurel and Brad Thompson
July 20, 2011 at 7:55 am

So sorry to hear of the loss of Rob’s mom. I know what a wonderful woman she was. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

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Jane McGinnis
July 20, 2011 at 9:06 am

Our thoughts and prayers and love to each of you. May it ease your sorrow to know how much others care.

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