Dorothy Rohde

Dorothy Mae Rohde, 92, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2026.

Dorothy was born on June 26, 1934, in Kasson Township to the late Corey D. and Francis (Bartunek) Smith.

On June 9, 1956, she married George H. Rohde. He preceded her in death in 2004. Together they shared 48 years of devoted marriage.

Dorothy retired from Prudential after 41 years as a dedicated clerical and administrative assistant. She often enjoyed sharing stories from her years there with family and friends.

A woman of deep faith, Dorothy was a devoted parishioner of St. Patrick Catholic Church and a faithful volunteer for many decades. She was known for her dependable service, especially reconciling church offerings, and tithes with remarkable accuracy.

Dorothy enjoyed quilting, crafting, crocheting, and playing cards. Many family members learned card games around her dining room table, where she was known for being a spirited competitor who never gave away a win. She was also a loyal fan of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions and could often be heard enthusiastically coaching the coaches, players, referees, and umpires from her living room.

She enjoyed classic movies, occasional trips to the casino, and sharing family recipes in her kitchen with younger generations. Strong-willed, independent, and generous, Dorothy delighted in teaching her many generations of nieces and nephews how to cook and bake. In her younger years, she also enjoyed taking them on fishing trips and visits to the sand dunes. Her home was adorned with a beautiful collection of angels, reflecting the faith that guided her life.

Dorothy's kindness and welcoming spirit earned her a special title among family and friends alike. To many, whether related or not, she was simply known as "Aunt Dorothy."

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband George and siblings, Raymond Wilsey, Eleanor Revold, Ben Wilsey, Leonard Wilsey, Evelyn Carlson, Helen “June” Morton, Marie Witte, Beulah Thayer, Jean Neumann, and Corey “Jesse” Smith, and by her nephew, Chuck Smith.

Dorothy is survived by several generations of nieces and nephews and dear friends.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Patrick Catholic Church on October 31 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. A luncheon will follow, and interment will take place at Cleveland Township Cemetery at 2:30 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Dorothy's honor may be directed to the Father Fred Foundation or the St. Patrick Food Pantry.