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Nancy Dorner Obituary

Nancy Lou Dorner

Kentwood - Nancy Lou Dorner, age 86 of Kentwood, formerly of Kalamazoo and born in Battle Creek, passed away Monday, December 18, 2017. She was preceded in death by her husband Dr. Kenneth R. Dorner; parents Franklin and Myrtle Willbrant; brothers Richard and John Willbrant. She is survived by her sons Jeffrey (Mark Archer) Dorner, and David (Stephanie) Dorner of Grand Rapids, and Dr. Brian Dorner of Dublin, OH; grandchildren Annabelle, Gabriel, and Aaron Dorner of Grand Rapids, Andrew, Dean and Brooke Dorner of Dublin, OH; siblings Judy Brown of Battle Creek, MI, Carolyn Amodeo of Middletown, NY, and George Willbrandt of Ocean Isle Beach, NC. Nancy attended Lakeview High School and the University of Michigan graduating in 1953. She and Dr. Kenneth Dorner were then married also in 1953 and lived in a variety of places such as Washington DC, Georgia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey before settling in Michigan to be near family. While Kenneth completed his internships and residencies, Nancy found work with the phone company and then as a junior high school math teacher. She obtained her master's degree in communication from Western Michigan University and went on to be a part time professor of communication at Western's undergraduate school. She was highly sought after by various women's groups and retreats across the country as a speaker on a multitude of topics. Her hobbies included art and poetry. Many of her poems could be seen in publications throughout the country. She authored two books; A Women's Guide to Spiritual Power Through Scriptural Prayer and Crackerjack the Christmas Cat. A Graveside Service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Rd., Augusta, MI 49012 on Friday, December 29, 1:30 p.m. (those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the gate at 1:15 p.m.). Pastor Bob Stewart officiating.

Published by Battle Creek Enquirer on Dec. 24, 2017.
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Memories and Condolences
for Nancy Dorner

Sponsored by O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel - Grand Rapids O'Brien Eggebeen Gerst Chapel.

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We had a beautiful little service for mom at Fort Custer on Friday, with 30 in attendance, despite the cold weather and the closing of the highways! All 3 sons and 6 grand-kids read one of her poems, and Pastor Bob Steward gave a nice service.

We then all had a nice dinner afterwards, sharing memories and stories and looking over her books, paintings, poetry, letters, and pictures. We will miss her dearly. She clearly gave freely to all that needed help in her life.

Love you, Mom. Your son, David...

David Dorner

December 31, 2017

Jeff and Family hope that your memories will sustain you in the difficult times ahead.

Joy Northam

December 27, 2017

She was a wonderful Christian woman. She loved the Lord and liked to share her faith with others. She was a blessing to me whenever I visited her.

Blanca Telman

December 25, 2017

"Grandma" Dorner was a wonderful and generous lady. She was a blessing to have had in our daughter and granddaughters lives. Extra "grandmas" are always welcome in our lives and hearts.

Bernadette DeVries

December 24, 2017

What a remarkable woman she was! I'm proud o have been her friend.

Kathleen Hatfield

December 24, 2017

There will be many instances of loving memories given you by those who enjoyed time with her. Those will help you and refresh you as you endure this so very special loss. Psalms 62:11,12.

December 23, 2017

I remember Ken and Nancy our neighbors 8n Glenn, our lake homes. They were the warmest people I've ever knew. I befriended his son David and his wife Steph. Those were great days. I will miss them every day. David Christine

December 22, 2017

I am so sorry to hear Nancee pass on ..SHe was a wonderful friend and everyone they knew her and heard her speak of her Lord were in awe of her story ,,i loved her very much ,,many Christian womens groups together ....love to all the family Eileen Mulder

December 22, 2017

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Memorial Events
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Dec

29

Graveside service

1:30 p.m.

Fort Custer National Cemetery

15501 Dickman Rd., Augusta, MI

Funeral services provided by:

O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel - Grand Rapids

3980 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

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