Obituary of Dorothy Jane Villard

Our beautiful and charming mother Dorothy Jane Villard (Dottie) passed away most peacefully on June 28,  2021 at the age of 97 in the arms of her loving caregiver.  Her death was mourned by all those who cared for her as she lightened their load with her humor and affection for them.

Born on August 23, 1923 in Iowa and later moving to Wisconsin, Dorothy distinguished herself early on as an avid learner and excellent student.  One of eight children, she convinced  her father to send her to Marquette University from which she graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy in 1948.   She also took flying lessons and joined the Civil Air Patrol.   During World War II, she was an active and popular USO hostess sporting a gorgeous head of auburn hair and a great sense of style both of which she kept through her lifetime. She then moved with her parents to Southern California and later taught Spanish and met and married one of her students,  our father Albert Villard (Bert) in 1949.  They moved to Bert’s place of birth in Central California.

Bert and Dottie then had five children, Rochelle, Charmaine, Kevinn, Denise and Bret within a period of six years.  A very busy mother, she still made time to ensure that her children were given the best clothing, care and education under the circumstances while at the same time indulging her growing love of oil painting, entertainment and bridge and later golf. Whatever the finances, she infused our home’s atmosphere with a memorable sense of festivity during the holiday seasons.  A lover of fine clothing and beauty, she made certain personal sacrifices so that her children could enjoy whatever opportunity and lifestyle possible.

This balancing act became more challenging when she starting teaching elementary school to pitch in financially.  True to her nature, she excelled in anything that held her interest and her performance in her profession was no exception.  She adapted well to the many educational changes that occurred over her twenty-five year stint.  Former students many years later would often comment on the contribution she made to their lives.  

Retirement was not wasted on our mother.  She further indulged her love of oil painting, golf, bridge, reading, crosswords  and above all, travel and entertainment  Our father, more of a homebody and incredibly hardworking,  supported  these pursuits as he joined her on their many cruises as he appreciated all that she had foregone for their children. Travel so enchanted her that she could recount in detail the many places they had been. She was also an animal lover and was devoted to her poodles.   And last but not least, she loved her parties, family and friends.

Dorothy was predeceased by her husband Bert in 1999 and two of her daughters, Rochelle in 2015 and recently Denise in 2021. She is survived by her children Charmaine, Kevinn and Bret , Charmaine’s husband Bill and his daughter Tiffany 

Her affectionate nature and love of life and beauty will be missed greatly by all.

Love you , Mom