Dorothy J. (Uleman) Dryer

On January 27th, 2023 Dorothy Dryer a beloved wife, mother and grandmother passed away at 91 years of age. She is survived by Forrest (Gene) Dryer her husband of 64 years, and four children Pat Pedone, Jen Lyons, Rich Dryer and Dave Dryer, 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Dorothy was born in Decatur to Herman and Francis Uleman, she was Salutatorian at St. Joseph School. After graduation she began her adventure working in Fort Wayne and on to Washington DC, Florida and even living in Europe. Dort was the “Seize the Moment” woman always open for fun and adventure.

Dort was the “mayor” of Decatur, she knew everyone and everyone knew and loved her and her gift of making everyone feel so special and loved. She was active in Saint Mary’s Church as well as helping at St. Joseph School. She was the consummate volunteer always happy to help. She was everyone’s second mom.

We learned many valuable lessons from Dort, at a party always talks to the person by themselves, there is always room for one more for supper, she never knew a stranger, only a friend she hadn’t met. Wash your Red Solo cups and re-use them. There is always a new recipe for Jello. She was best friends with the “paperboy”. Smile and greet everyone, and listen to their story no matter how busy you are. Bring food to everyone, whether in happy or sad times.  She always said your “looks” can get you in the door for the first five minutes and after that, it was your character and reputation. Status was not important; it was what you did for others and your contribution.

God knew the world needed a few more smiles and a little more joy and a lot more love and we are grateful for God giving us Dort “Mom” and for sharing her with the world.

The funeral mass will be at St. Mary’s Church in Decatur Ind. on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. We invite everyone to her funeral to celebrate her amazing life.

In lieu of flowers memorials are to St. Joseph School in Decatur Ind.

Arrangements handled by Haggard-Hirschy & Zelt Funeral Home.

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