Dorothy Jane Lapierre (Riel)

December 31, 1932 - January 1, 2024

Dorothy Jane Lapierre, affectionately known as Dottie to her loved ones, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2024, at 12:45 am. Born on December 31, 1932, in Laurel, Montana, Dorothy's life touched the hearts of so many.

Dorothy is survived by her two devoted daughters: Laura Koester of LaPine, OR, and Niki Schultz of Bellevue, WA. We take great comfort in knowing she is reunited with her only son, Steven Daniel Harris. Her sister, Evelyn of Billings, MT, also preceded her in death. Dorothy is survived by her sister, Amelia "Toots" Demaree of Helena, MT, her brother, Gary Riel of Bellevue, WA, son-in-law Robert Koester of LaPine, OR, daughter-in-law Lindsay Harris of Winters, CA, nieces Julie and her wife Anna Demaree of Helena, MT, Shelly Little of Everett, WA, and Jan Lutz of CO, as well as nephews Greg Riel of Issaquah, WA, and Randy Love of ND.

Dorothy's life was enriched by the presence of five cherished grandsons: Jason Harris of Winters, CA; Corey and Brannan Lewis of Gilchrist, OR; Zachary Schultz of Mission, British Columbia, Canada; and Kyle Schultz of Snoqualmie, WA. Dorothy was also blessed with a great granddaughter Marina Ann of Concord, CA. Each one was a source of joy, and she loved them all fiercely and dearly.

Born to Alex and Amelia (Millie) Riel, Dorothy spent her formative years in rural Montana. Life later took her to California, where she worked at Orlando's Grill and for Lavon’s Food Truck. Dorothy's spirit and love for connecting with people would shine brightly in the years that would follow.

Mom devoted an incredible 7 decades of her life to serving others. Beginning as early as 8th grade when she lovingly cared for her younger siblings, her commitment extended until her late 70’s, as she dedicated herself to looking after our aging grandfather. Throughout her life, Mom poured her heart into caring for and serving those around her.

In Billings, MT, Mom worked at Wong Village & The Windmill Restaurant, and she worked a 3rd job arranging beautiful flowers at Hopper’s Flower Shop. Later, she found herself in the midst of Yellowstone National Park's hustle, serving the needs of tourists at one of its busiest grocery stores. She also helped with the family-owned and operated motel near the park’s North Entrance.

In her later working years, she formed deep connections with families in Paradise Valley, MT, while working at the Emigrant General Store.

If Dottie wasn’t working, you could find her on her golf cart headed out to the garden to be with her flowers. It was her “therapy” she’d call it.

Dorothy found love just in the nick of time. As she entered her assisted living facility, she met a fellow named Popeye, and they were the talk of the halls! Sweet, lovely moments were had, and the shared laughter between them became the soundtrack of their days.

Mom, you instilled in us a strength and courage that has served us well. We will be forever indebted to the love you gave us all for so many years. We love you more than words could ever say. May your soul be forever free!

Per Dorothy’s request, there will be no services. She will be laid to rest next to her son Steve in CA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Rimrock Humane Society www.rimrockhumanesociety.org, in Dorothy's name.