Dorothy J. Koessel, age 96, of Grand Rapids, passed away Tuesday, July 27, 2021, surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred “Bud” Koessel Jr.; brothers, Lea (Eleanor) Wallin, Don (Bonnie) Wallin; brother-in-law, Don Koessel; sister-in-law, Ruth Jackson. Dorothy is survived by her children, Jim (Carlee) Koessel, Doug (Luanne) Koessel; grandchildren, Brian (Stephanie), Dr. Kimberly, Sean (Stacy), Ryan (Heather) Koessel; great-grandchildren, Elsie, Kenny, Nicholas, Reese, Olivia, Nora, and Gavin Koessel; sister, Geri VanFarowe (Don); and many nieces and nephews. Dorothy was born in Cadillac but was a life-long resident of Grand Rapids. She attended Union High and enjoyed being a drum majorette with the marching band. Dorothy married Bud in June 1946, upon his return from the service. Following Bud’s death, she began a long career at Central Michigan Paper Company. When she retired from Central Michigan, she began a new career volunteering at the Discover Shop of the American Cancer Society. Over the years, she kept busy with many interests, canasta group, travel, and family. Family was first and foremost. She loved her time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Visitation will be Sunday, August 1, 2021, from 1:00 – 3:00 PM at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Monday, August 2, 2021, at Cascade Christian Church, 2829 Thornapple River Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with visitation one-hour prior. Rev. Jill Forton officiating. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 129 Jefferson Ave. S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503, Faith Hospice, 2100 Raybrook SE Suite 300 Grand Rapids, MI 49546-5783, or Trillium Woods, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Dr SW, Byron Center, MI 49315.
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Prayers for the Koessel family during this difficult time.
The Ashley family, (Randy and Ryan), are sad to hear about the passing of Dorothy. We were all Eastmont clan families with the kids playing and fighting all the time. The good times in school, sports, summer vacations and possibly getting into trouble with our parents were all good memories. I’m sure our parents had their hands full. Although Dorothy has passed away, memories of her will always be with you forever.