Obituary: Dorothy Elizabeth Vassallo

On the afternoon of Sept. 11, 2011, Dorothy Elizabeth Vassallo, 97, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, entered into the arms of her Lord and Savior. She died peacefully, surrounded by family.

Dorothy was born on Jan. 3, 1914, in Oakland, Calif. She was the daughter of the late Herman Sandkuhle and Juliette Stettenbenz Sandkuhle.

She attended college at San Jose State and Stanford University, where she received her degree in accounting and business. Her father was a pioneer nurseryman in Oakland and Danville, Calif. Dorothy worked diligently at the nursery in Danville, supporting all aspects of the business.

On Sept. 5, 1937, she married Frank H. Vassallo. Dorothy and Frank lived in Danville, where they worked and raised their three children before moving to Chino Valley, Ariz., in 2002. Dorothy's hobbies and interests included gardening, harvesting and canning the fruits and vegetables that she grew. She created many beautiful pieces of handiwork, including knitted lace table covers, and bedspreads. In addition, Dorothy enjoyed ceramics and doll-making. She and Frank traveled across the country and enjoyed many adventures together.

Dorothy is survived by her husband of 75 years, Frank H. Vassallo of Chino Valley; children Frances Vassallo Sharp of Chino Valley and Nick Vassallo of Chino Valley; 11 grandchildren, Deborah, Constance, Thea, Frankie, John, Roger, Nickie, Andy, Elizabeth, Julie and Janie; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Theresa Carr, and three siblings, Ruth Kirby, Herman and Raymond Sandkuhle.

Dorothy's life was an example of hard work and sacrifice on behalf of her family and those around her. She will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her so much.

A memorial service will be at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Family Care, Prescott, Ariz.

Information provided by survivors.


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