Dorothy Caroline Surmeier

Dorothy Caroline Surmeier (nee Martens), 93 of Freeburg, IL, passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 31, 2024. She was born on August 29, 1931, the only daughter of Adolph and Esther (nee Rabe) Martens in rural Venedy, IL. She married her husband, Harry J. Surmeier on October 11, 1960. They were married 59 years at the time of Harry’s passing in 2020.

Dorothy was a homemaker who adored her family. Her passions included cooking and baking, flower gardening, quilting, and of course, bowling. She bowled in a league for over 50 years, starting with the Cathedral Mother’s Club, where her daughters went to grade school. She will forever be remembered for her generous gift of time. She was “Grandma Dot” to her four grandchildren and spent countless days with them over the past 38 years. She also volunteered at many schools, community, and church events.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Harry, and six brothers, Ralph, Roy, Earl, Harold, Leo, and Paul Martens, as well as a great-granddaughter, Sophia Albers.

Left to mourn her passing are her daughters, Patricia (Paul) Robertson of Fairview Heights/Apollo Beach, FL, and Brenda (Michael) Albers of St. Libory, IL. Her grandchildren, Adam (Brandy) Albers of Rushville, IN, Sara (Matthew) Schanz of O’Fallon, IL, Erin (Zach) Biggs of Manchester, MO, and Katelyn (Alex) Blair of Belleville, IL. She is survived by six great grandchildren, Theodore & August Schanz, Evelyn Albers, Violet & Wren Blair, and Joseph Biggs. Florence Mense, and Laura Eddleman, Harry’s sisters, also survive her, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Salvator Lutheran Church cemetery. Special thanks to the staff and care providers at Cedar Trails Assisted Living Facility and Southern Illinois Hospice.

VISITATION:  From 9 to 11 AM Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, at St. Salvator Lutheran Church in Venedy, IL.

FUNERAL:   A memorial service honoring both Dorothy and her husband Harry Surmeier will be held at 11 AM Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, at Salvator Lutheran Church with Pastor Jim D’entremont officiating.