 CRIPPEN, DOROTHY LILLIAN SUMMERS, of Coral Gables, Florida and a summer resident of Boone, North Carolina, was born in Rochester, New York on December 5, 1927 and has gone to our Lord on June 29, 2012. She was the daughter of Phillip and Mary Ann Laudisi (deceased), sister of Rose Marie Johnson (Robert) and Carol Zaccaria (Joseph), and Donald Summers (deceased) (Edith). Dottie was predeceased by her spouse of 58 years, her childhood sweetheart, and the love of her life Frank. Dottie is survived by her four children, thirteen grandchildren, and three great grandchildren: Daughter Deborah Caruso (Dr. Mark Caruso), Michelle Keldie (Chris) Ryan Keldie, Stephanie Caruso, Stephen Caruso; Son Jeff Crippen (Susie) Dr. Jeffrey Crippen, Jr., Nicole Crippen, Susanne Crippen, Kristyn Crippen; Daughter Sharon Crippen-Ginsburg (Steve), Frankie Summers Crippen-Ginsburg, Bonnie Ginsburg, Jason Ginsburg, Daniel Ginsburg; Son James Crippen (Carolyn) Jennifer Devesa (Manny), Isabella Devesa, Sophia Devesa, Jessica Barbosa (Nicholas), and many nieces and nephews, and special friends. After Dottie graduated high school, she worked in Rochester, NY for Fincher Oldsmobile. After marrying Frank on January 6, 1951, they moved to Miami and shortly after to Lansing, Michigan (1954-1965). Dottie and Frank returned to Miami where Frank founded Crippen Oldsmobile in 1965, and they raised their family in Bal Harbour until moving to Deering Bay in 1997. Dottie was very involved in her children's schools and activities, but always had time to fundraise for church and community. As a founder of the Marian Center Auxiliary, a non-profit private school for children and adults with developmental disabilities, she co- chaired many annual balls and luncheons. Her contributions were instrumental in promoting awareness and improving the physical campus and educational programs. In recognition of faithful and outstanding service to her church and community, Dottie was invited and installed as a Dame of the Order of Malta in 1990 (one of the first South Florida members), a worldwide lay, religious order of the Roman Catholic Church which promotes sanctification through work with the sick and the poor. She worked tirelessly with Frank in developing and growing the Chapter. She traveled to Lourdes and assisted malades for six consecutive years. Dottie co-chaired and sponsored the annual and successful Malta Galas, and hosted the yearly retreats in Boone. Dottie was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, St. Louis Catholic Church, The Bal Harbour Club, The Surf Club, LaGorce Country Club, Hound Ears Club, and Deering Bay Yacht & Country Club. Her family was of the upmost importance in her life. She would never miss a graduation, family dinner, birthday, recital, a shopping trip to the mall, or a photo opportunity. She was well known by family and friends for sending multiple cards filled with confetti, sealed with stickers, and full of love. She was very generous of spirit and heart with everyone. Nothing made her happier than giving to her children, grandchildren, great- grandchildren and friends. Dottie's laughter, warm heart, and uplifting spirit will be missed by all. The Funeral Service will be held Monday, July 2, 2012 at 11am at St. Louis Catholic Church; 7270 SW 120 Street, Pinecrest, Florida. Family burial service at Our Lady of Mercy. The family requests memorial donations be made to the Marian Center School and Services 15701 NW 37 Avenue, Miami Gardens, FL 33054. View this Guest Book at www. MiamiHerald.com/obituaries.
Published in The Miami Herald from July 1 to July 2, 2012
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