Dorothy Jean Twiest

Dorothy Jean (Carlson) Twiest, 97, of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away on February 16, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Dorothy, affectionately known as Dottie, Boo Boo, and Gigi (just to name a few), was born on October 10, 1928, in Marne, Michigan, to Victor and Etta Carlson. She graduated from Coopersville High School and went on to receive a scholarship to Michigan State University for a cooking program. Dorothy met the love of her life, Frederick “Fred” Twiest, while waiting for the bus in front of Twiest Grocery. Seeing her out in the cold, Fred invited her inside while she waited. That simple act of kindness led to a lifelong love story. Dorothy and Fred were married in 1948 and welcomed two children, Robert “Bob” Twiest and Diane (Twiest) Wallman. Together they managed Twiest Grocery before moving to Traverse City in 1970, where Dorothy worked as a cook for NMC. In the early 1980s, they traveled throughout Michigan, managing several senior apartment complexes before eventually returning to Traverse City to enjoy retirement. Dorothy was known for her humor, warm hospitality, and unwavering devotion to her family — especially her grandchildren. She found joy in cooking, baking, sewing, and never passed up a good card game. The kitchen was her happy place, always filled with the smells of something wonderful she was creating. At the remarkable age of 89, Dorothy went on her first mission trip to Ecuador — a testament to her adventurous and giving spirit. She is survived by her daughter Diane (Michael) Wallman; daughter-in-law Joyce (Robert) Fritz; sister Mary Pontremoli; eight grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Fred; her son, Robert “Bob” Twiest; her parents; her siblings; and her nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held on February 20 at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Reformed Church, 1139 E. Front Street, Traverse City, Michigan 49686, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. The family welcomes you to join them for a luncheon immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Country Pleasures Assisted Living in memory of “Dottie.”

Dorothy Jean Twiest

October 10, 1928 - February 16, 2026