Dureen "Dee" Schmitt Chaffee made the transition from this life to the next on February 6, 2017. Born in Springfield, MA to the late John and Clara Jane (Smith) Schmitt on April 27, 1941, she grew up in Woodbridge, CT. Dee graduated from Amity High School in 1958. She received a BA degree from Wilson College on 1962 with a double major in music history and bible and a minor in classics. Dee then enrolled in Yale Divinity School where she met and married Albert Chaffee. She received a MAR degree in 1964.

Dee held a position as a Director of Christian Education while her husband finished seminary. As a seminary trained clergy spouse, she participated in all aspects of church life during the 40 years that her husband pursued active ministry.

Dee engaged in a variety of occupations during her adult life. She provided in home child care, served as a classroom aide in elementary schools, worked as an aide and teacher in special education and finished with a ten years stint as a piano teacher a dozen students of various ages and abilities.

Music was at the heart of her life. She began singing in church choirs at the age of 8 and continued to do so up to the last two month of her life. She also sang in a community choir for 22 years. Dee played piano, organ and hand bells at various times, she also led junior and cherub choirs in several churches.

Dee was also active in the community. She was a member of the Women's Club in Honesdale, PA for 26 years, worked with an adult literacy program for 14 years. She also served on the fundraising committee and the on the Board of Habitat for Humanity of Wayne County, PA. Dee also spent 20 years as advancement chair for Boy Scout Troop One and helped mentor numerous Eagle Scouts.

Knitting was her other passion. She learned from her grandmother at an early age and she was known as the lady that brought a knitting bag to almost all events and meetings. Dee made items for family members but was proudest of making hats, mittens and scarves for multiple charitable organizations, including over 500 infant hats given out by Munson Hospital. Her knitting also provided items to sell at craft fairs, with the proceeds going to support Habitat for Humanity.

In addition to her husband of 53 years, Albert, she is survived by sons; Peter (Tammy) of Bellefonte, PA, Scott (Rebecca) of Syracuse, NY and Christopher (Inger) of Yellow Springs, OH. Also surviving are five grandchildren; Allison, Deter, Conrad, Tristan and Brodan, a sister, Linda (Marc) Gallini, a sister-in-law, Alta Swinehart as well as two special nephews and their wives and families, Daniel and Brian.

A memorial and celebration of Dureen's life will be held at Central United Methodist Church, 222 Cass St., Traverse City, MI on Saturday, February 18, 2017 at 11:00 a.m., with visiting one hour prior. Pastor Chris Lane will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Leelanau Conservancy, P.O. Box 1007, Leland, MI 49654; Habitat for Humanity, 1129 Woodmere Ave., Suite F, Traverse City, MI 49686; or the organ fund at Central United Methodist Church, 222 Cass Street, Traverse City, MI 49684.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Dee's family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.