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Dorothy Elizabeth Stuetzer Brooks passed away at her home in Dexter, Michigan, on Saturday, April 29, 2023, one month shy of her 97th birthday. A celebration of her life will be held at Webster United Church of Christ, 5484 Webster Church Road, Dexter, MI 48130 on May 26, 2023 at 11:00 A.M.
Dorothy was born on May 28, 1926, in Flint, Michigan to Christian and Ida (Edele) Stuetzer. Her childhood years involved quite a few relocations, as her parents searched for work in response to the Great Depression. In 1938 they decided a move back to their home in Augsburg, Germany would keep the family working. Even as she formed lasting relationships with many wonderful relatives and friends in Germany, Dorothy and her family were happy to safely return to the United States in May of 1942.
On June 10, 1949, Dorothy married Kenneth Brooks, and together Kenny and Dorle set to work to create a home. The home she and Kenny built “hands-on” nurtured not only her children and grandchildren, but became a cherished retreat for many beloved nieces, nephews, neighbors, and friends—too many to name here—but all so appreciated. It became a place for Cub Scout projects, band rehearsals, ice skating, spinning and weaving wool, and baking countless pies. There were decades Dorothy dedicated to flower arranging, knitting, and rug hooking, along with the important work of caring for loved ones, including each of her parents, her older siblings, her spouse, children, and grandchildren. The trees that tower over the house are a testament to the passage of a great long time. The house that was planted in an open field is now nestled in a forest.
Dorothy’s siblings Anna Stuetzer Branstner, Ida Stuetzer, and Christian Stuetzer have predeceased her, as has her husband Kenneth Brooks, and one grandson, Benjamin Brooks.
Dorothy is survived by children Linda Brooks Smith (Jim), Thomas Brooks (Susan), and Jean Brooks Cares (John), as well as seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Should you wish to make a contribution in memory of Dorothy, please consider a gift to: Faith in Action, 603 S. Main St, Chelsea, Michigan 48118
