Dorothy G. Nerothin

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Nerothin, Dorothy G. Left THIS world peacefully on Feb. 19, 2014 at the Jones-Harrison Residence in Mpls only a few months shy of her 100th birthday. She was born July 29, 1914 in Aurora, IL. Preceded in death by her parents, Pastor Ernest T. Smith & Olga B. Smith; her brother, Donald Smith; sister, Doris Foshager and her beloved husband, Pastor C. Ward Nerothin in 2001. She graduated from Aurora East High and soon took a secretarial job at Pictorial Book and Bindery in Aurora. She met Ward at her father’s parish (Grace Lutheran Church, Aurora, IL) and after a near seven year courtship through Ward’s educational years at Rock Island’s Augustana College & Seminary, they were married at Grace Lutheran with Dorothy’s father officiating. The couple was soon off to start their new life together in Minnesota after the newly ordained pastor accepted a call to the then fledgling Elim Lutheran Congregation in Robbinsdale, MN. Little did they know this parish and the community of Robbinsdale would represent "home-base" for them and their future family for years to come (57 years of married life together). Their lifelong ministry together at Elim turned out to be a TEAM effort. Dorothy took on a "behind the scences" steadying, encouraging and supporting role underpinning her husband’s pastoral duties. He often commented he "couldn’t have done it alone" without the help of his beloved Dorothy. Together they had three children, Dr. Paul (Julie), Dr. David (Linda) and Anne (Bruce) Bouta, and later blessed with nine grandchildren and 11 great- grandchildren. Also survived by brother-in-law, Dr. Vernon Foshager, his family and family of brother Don. We will always remember Mom’s kind, gentle and unassuming manner. The mutual respect that she and Ward shared for each other created an atmosphere of harmony and security for us growing up. Her unwavering Faith was a constant in her life. We will be forever grateful for the Christian example she established in our home. Our family would like to extend its sincere gratitude to Jones-Harrison Residence and especially to the many devoted Devon Court staff members who over many years participated in Mom’s daily care. Their consistent kindness and professional, loving care was amazing. We can’t thank them enough! Memorials preferred to the church. Interment Crystal Lake Cemetery. Service Tuesday, Feb. 25, 10:30 AM, with visitation one hour prior at Elim Lutheran Church, 40th & West Broadway, Robbinsdale. Washburn-McReavy.com Robbinsdale Chapel 763-537-2333

Published on February 23, 2014