Dorothy M. Mensch, 90, of Manly passed away peacefully Thursday, December 19, 2024 at the Manly Care Center after a long, full life.

Funeral Services will be held 2pm Saturday, December 28, 2024 at Bride Colonial Chapel, 110 East Spring Street, Manly, IA with Rev. Paul Weegs of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Grafton officiating. She will be laid to rest at Grafton Cemetery, Grafton, IA.

Visitation will be from 4:00pm to 7:00pm Friday, December 27, 2024 at the funeral home.

Dorothy Margaret was born March 4, 1934 near Riceville, the daughter of Alfred and Tena (Wirtjes) Schmidt. The family moved over the years, eventually making their home in Manly where Dorothy graduated from Manly High School. She began work at the Brick and Tile Building, and later Grant Batteries. In 1959 she married Merle Mensch and they were blessed with two children, Kevin and Doreen, and adopted James. The couple later separated. Dorothy would later work at KGLO as a bookkeeper before beginning her 20 plus year career at Winnebago Industries. She retired in 2001.

Dorothy was a kind and resourceful woman who lived a life filled with love for her family and an appreciation for life’s simple joys. Known for her calm and easygoing nature, she always wanted the best for those around her, even if it meant dishing out a little tough love when needed. Dorothy adored being a grandma and cherished time spent with family. She looked forward to family gatherings, and always made holiday gatherings extra special. She took great pride in her bountiful garden, where she grew and canned vegetables with care. Dorothy was also a wonderful baker, cookies, cakes and treats were always around the house. Her passion for antiques and bargain hunting often led her to farmers' markets and rummage sales, where she not only found treasures but also delighted in meeting and chatting with new people. A skilled crocheter, she created countless keepsakes and outfits for her beloved doll collection, each one a testament to her creativity and devotion. Above all, Dorothy cherished her family, holding them close to her heart and leaving them with a legacy of love and thoughtfulness.

She is survived by her children, Kevin (Norma) Mensch of Manly and Doreen (Greg) Heitland of Apache Junction, AZ; grandchildren, Miranda (Robert) Jimenez, Carissa Mensch, David Mensch, Cristopher (Sarah) Heitland, and Katie (Tyler) Basore; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Ruth and Helen Schmidt; as well as nieces, nephews and many extended family members.

Greeting her in Heaven are her parents; a son, James (Wirtjes); siblings, Richard, Henry and Dennis Schmidt, Viola Bentzin, Sharon Sanderson and an infant sister, Dorthea Schmidt.