Dorothy Strawn

Dorothy (Dottie) D. Strawn, 94, died at home in Wakefield, RI on April 27, 2017, after a long illness. She was the wife of the late Alfred J. Kenerleber, and the mother of Sharon Henderson of Pace, FL and John Kenerleber of Atlanta, GA.  She was born on a farm in Anthon, IA on Dec. 17, 1922, to Clair and Martha Strawn. She is survived by her sister, Joyce Strawn Bishop of Sioux City, IA, and predeceased by their sister, Wilma Swanson — and their brothers Gary Strawn, Buck Strawn and James Strawn. She is also survived by two grandchildren — JJ Kenerleber and Chad Hasty — and her daughter-in-law, Denise Kenerleber. She took care of the family as a stay-at-home-corporate mom, traveling around the country as her husband set up television picture tube plants in new locations. After the children were in college, she worked in sales of better ladies clothing in Atlanta at Ansley Mall and at Michael’s and Burke’s at Southern Hills Mall in Sioux City. At the end of her career, she moved to Pensacola, FL with her daughter and would spend six months at the summer family home in coastal Rhode Island. Although her life was not always easy, she thoroughly enjoyed it. She enjoyed sitting at the bay window watching the birds and squirrels come to the feeders, waiting for the letter carrier and the long walk to the mailbox to find her surprise. She always looked forward to a special visit to the Waffle House, savoring a donut with a good cup of coffee from the local bakery, a home fried shrimp and oyster dinner with hushpuppies, and a trip to the casino on family holidays.  She was a fan of Wheel of Fortune and Judge Judy. She doted on her dogs: Biscuit, Brewster, Brody and Scooter. Her beloved feline, Boogie, slept with his head on her arm each night. She was young-at-heart and dressed in the current styles always saying, “I would rather not be with those old people.” Having her hair done by Stylist Rodney Kehl was her fashion highlight. She was a good cook - however, the favorite recipes she would not share included spaghetti and meatballs, potato salad, baked beans, and New York Cheese Cake. A popular restaurant in Augusta, GA, begged for her cheesecake recipe with no luck.  She thought all children should be loved, adored, and pampered. She was always proud of her children and grandchildren. Her son gave constant moral support. She was profoundly appreciative of her daughter’s loving care, especially during last the three years. She was part of a mutual admiration society with her doctors and caregivers. She liked to solve crossword puzzles and have morning chats with her sister-in-law, Anita Strawn, and sister Joyce in Sioux City.   She was well known for her compassion and generosity. Her favorite flower was the purple iris, so when you see one, think of her. All services will be private. Memorial contributions can be made to Animal Rescue League, 506 Curtis Corner Rd., Peace Dale, RI 02879.