Dorothy Hilenski's Obituary
Dorothy Hilenski, age 86, of Lorain passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2022. She was born on October 13, 1935, in Fall River, Massachusetts to Joseph and Stella Amaral.
Dorothy married Larry, the love of her life, over 65 years ago. They were devoted to one another and were committed to having a large family and made them the center of their lives. Their love and support of 5 children and 11 grandchildren was beyond what anyone could wish for. Dorothy was an incredible mother and the core of the family. Her smile, personality, and Boston accent were irresistible to everyone she met. She was ALWAYS a very classy lady and the envy of all the granddaughters with her elaborate purse and shoe collection. She was a kindhearted and lovely lady that enjoyed life and will be greatly missed by all.
Her compassion for others led her to work at St. Joseph Hospital and Mercy Regional Medical Center over the span of forty years, where she made many treasured memories and cherished friendships.
Dorothy was a long-time active member of St. Peter’s Church in Lorain. She supported many community outreach programs and charities. She was an avid Cleveland sports fan (especially the Cleveland Cavaliers) and spoke often about the wonderful time traveling she and her husband Larry had with their special neighbors and friends. She enjoyed having a glass of wine and long conversations.
Dorothy is survived by her sons, Mark (Cheryl, Cody, Cory Adkins) Hilenski, Scott (Cheri) Hilenski, and Bryan (Kristen Rozga) Hilenski; daughters, Karen Towner, and Shelly (Barry) Fairchild; grandchildren, Mitchell Hilenski, Jillian Hilenski, Brooke (Derek) Maropis, Allison Towner, Brittney Towner, Chloe Fairchild (John Shade), Abigail Fairchild, Matthew Fairchild, Taylor Hilenski, Austin Hilenski, and Brandon Hilenski; sister, Barbara Medeiros; and numerous nieces and nephew.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Larry Hilenski; parents, Joseph, and Stella Amaral; brother, Joseph Amaral Jr.; and son-in-law, Scott Towner.
The family wishes to extend their appreciation to the doctors, nurses, and medical staff for their kindness and compassion over the years.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 19, 2022, from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. in the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. Funeral services will immediately follow the visitation at 7:30 p.m. in the funeral center. Rev. Father Craig Hovanec, Pastor of St. Peter’s Church will officiate. Private family inurnment will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Dorothy to the Disabled American Veterans or the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.dovinreberjones.com
What’s your fondest memory of Dorothy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dorothy?
Share a story where Dorothy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dorothy you’ll never forget.
How did Dorothy make you smile?