Dorothy Parnell
Feb. 16, 1913-March 2, 2008
Dorothy F. (Morgridge) Parnell, 95, of Birch Lake View Drive, Vandalia, passed away in her home Sunday, March 2, 2008, with her family by her side.
Dorothy was born in Cassopolis, MI, on February 16, 1913, to the late William and Carrie (Montgomery) Morgridge. She was also preceded in death by her husband, John Parnell Sr. in 1996, a sister, Louise (Sid) Skellenger; and aunt, Frankie (Harry) Hoover.
After graduating from Niles High School. Dorothy went on to attend Western Michigan University where she received her master’s degree in music and a minor in English. On June 27, 1942. Dorothy wed the love of her life, John Parnell Sr., at a beautiful ceremony in Niles.
In her free time. Dorothy loved spending time at Birch Lake and being in the outdoors. She spent much of her time gardening, bird watching, rock collecting, studying entomology and photography. Being a leader for the local 4-H and Girl and Boy Scouts was also on her agenda since she had four children. Dorothy was also a past member of the Garden Club and the YSDA. She was very active in the community and, with John, enjoyed throwing get togethers for her friends. She was also a very active member of the Wesley United Methodist Church of Niles where she played the organ for over 20 years.
Dorothy is survived by her children, Jeanne Marable of Phoenix, John Parnell Jr. of Cincinnati, OH, Richard “Dick” Parnell of Stowe, OH, and Kathy (Ron) Niezgodski of South Bend, IN; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
A time of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2008, in the Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Niles from 10 a.m. to noon, with her funeral following at noon. Pastor Emmett Kadwell will be officiating. Dorothy will be interred at Silverbrook Cemetery, also in Niles.
Donations may be made in Dorothy’s Memory to the Wesley United Methodist church. Those wishing to leave condolences, a member or a photo for the family may so at www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles.
Submitted by family member; publication details unknown