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Dorothy ‘Dottie’ Marie (Hayes) Spitzer

  Dorothy “Dottie” Marie (Hayes) Spitzer, 88, departed this physical world on the morning of June 3, 2012, in Greenbrae, from complications following a fall in her home. Dorothy was a wonderful loving soul, a dedicated mother, an adored friend, a cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, and a beloved mother-in-law and aunt. Dottie’s goal in life was to raise her children and grandchildren to be resilient, empowered and loving individuals able to make positive changes in the world. With unconditional love, a sentimental heart and courage, Dorothy modeled how to be tough yet kind while embracing the virtues of a religious woman. Dot’s willingness to volunteer, and come to the aid of loved ones in distress made a real difference in the lives of those she touched.

  Born to Grace and Leo Hayes on Sept. 19, 1923, in Kenmore, N.Y., Dorothy graduated from Kenmore High School. Dorothy’s father, Leo, introduced her to Robert Franklin Spitzer, her future husband. Following their marriage on Feb. 16, 1946, Dorothy and Robert raised five boys and two girls. Loyalty to husband and children entailed moves within New York, Indiana and Maryland. Her husband Robert’s early death weighed heavily on Dorothy’s heart, but she bravely shouldered the responsibility of being the matriarch of her family. Dorothy eventually moved to California to assist in raising her grandchildren. Being active in church, community and school affairs allowed Dottie to share her gregarious, fun loving and humorous personality that others adored. She is dearly missed by all.

  Dorothy is survived by her seven children – Dave, Doug, Dan, Kevin, Keith, Donna and Mary Ann; 10 grandchildren – Mindy, Chris, Taylor, Adrienne, Gabe, Nolan, Gus, Noah, Emma and Tyler; and two great-grandchildren – Charlie and Juliet.

  Friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 23, 2012, at St. Leo’s Catholic Church, 600 W. Agua Caliente Road, Sonoma, CA 95476. Inurnment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Buffalo, N.Y., at a later date.

  In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Dorothy’s memory to the California Grey Bears, 2710 Chanticleer Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95065, the Santa Cruz Ostomy Support Group, 230 Larita Drive, Ben Lomond, CA 95005; or the St. Vincent de Paul Society at c/o St. Leo’s Catholic Church, 601 W. Agua Caliente Road, Sonoma, CA 95476.

  Arrangements cared for by Duggan’s Mission Chapel, 525 W. Napa St., Sonoma, CA 95476. Inquiries can be made to them at 996-3655 or visit their website at www.duggansmissionchapel.com.