Dorothy Olerich

Dorothy Nadine Olerich was born on December 17, 1955, the daughter of John G. and Catherine A. (Lally) Lawler in Crawford County, Iowa. She was baptized and later confirmed her faith at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Vail. Dorothy received her education from Carroll Kuemper High School and graduated with the class of 1974. 

 Dorothy's life was a tapestry of love, dedication, and academic pursuit. On January 17, 1976, she exchanged vows with Myron Olerich at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Vail. Together, they were blessed with three wonderful boys. Dorothy found true joy in being a stay-at-home mom and nurturing her children through their formative years. Education was a cornerstone of Dorothy's journey. After her children graduated, she embarked on a personal quest for knowledge. She attended Western Iowa Tech Community College, followed by Morningside College with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, and ultimately Briar Cliff University where she earned her bachelor's degree in social work. She spent many years serving as the ombudsman for the Navy Reserve. 

 Dorothy was a lifelong member of St. Ann Catholic Church in Vail. She spent time teaching CCD. A master gardener by certification, Dorothy's green thumb brought forth blooms of joy and beauty. She found comfort being with nature, seeing and hearing the sounds soothed her soul. Sharing her gardening expertise with loved ones was not just a hobby but a way to spread happiness and create lasting memories.  In the company of her beloved husband Myron, Dorothy found joy in simple pleasures such as fishing, hunting, and tending to their chickens. Familiar faces brightened up when Dorothy arrived with fresh eggs in hand, a small gesture that spoke volumes of her generosity and thoughtfulness. Her kindness knew no bounds, and she took every opportunity to connect with others through meaningful conversations. Above all else, Dorothy treasured the moments spent with her family.

 Dorothy passed away with her husband by her side on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at her home on the farm in Westside at the age of 68 years, four months and 24 days. 

 Dorothy was preceded in death by parents; brother, Ed Lawler; father-in-law, Raymond Olerich and brother-in-law, Gary Jones. She is survived by her husband of over 48 years, Myron Olerich of Westside; children: Michael (Bonny) Olerich of Waverly, Dennis Olerich of Stewartville, Minnesota and Robert Olerich of Platte City, Missouri; nine grandchildren: Elisa, John, Jamie, Jenna, Ethan, Madison, Ella, Hayden and Luke; great-grandchildren: Zayden, Lux, and Cora-Lynn; siblings: Jim (Kathy) Lawler of Devine, Texas, Katie Lawler of Carroll, Mary Jones of Ankeny, Tom (Jan) Lawler of Harlan, Kevin (Cindy) Lawler of Carroll, Kristy (Mark) Poland of Carroll and Jeff (Nancy) Lawler of Granger; mother-in-law, Lois Olerich of Wall Lake; sisters-in-law: June (Bill) Lederer of Maryland and VirJean (Clint) Lehmkuhl of Colorado; brother-in-law, Brian Olerich of Denison; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other relatives and friends. 

 A prayer service will be held at 4:30 p.m. with the visitation with family greeting friends to follow, held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and a rosary at 7:00 p.m. all on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Vail. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on May 16, 2024, also at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Vail, burial will follow in the St. Ann's Cemetery near Vail. Memorials may be directed to the family.