Doretta Simone Zemp

Doretta Simone Zemp, of Los Angeles, California, passed away at the age of 87.

Born to Barbara and Raymond Smith on November 27, 1936, Doretta was the eldest of three and, from the start, was known for her independence, determination, and energy to carve out her personal path in life. She questioned. She objected. Her intelligence and unique perspective guided her through a life that emphasized education, strength of spirit, athleticism, and empowerment.

Doretta was a true believer in Oliver Wendell Holmes' credo, 'A person's mind stretched by a new idea can never go back to its original dimensions." She took great pride in her education and emphasized intelligence and thought. She earned a BA in History from UCLA, pursued graduate studies at USC School of Journalism and CSUN, and received an MA in Writing from Antioch University and another in MFCC from CSUDH. Doretta lived a varied and successful professional life including experiences as a model, professor, and psychotherapist. Her greatest passion and talent, however, was writing. Proudly, she was a journalist for local and national magazines and periodicals. However, Doretta found her greatest achievement in the novel she was in the midst of writing and hoped to publish during the latter years of her life.

Throughout her years, Dore was passionate about travelling, movies, and music, specifically classical music, inspired by having studied the flute and performing in an orchestra. She was also an avid voice for environmental causes. Early on, she educated herself about the dangers of chemicals and pesticides and did her best to make changes in the world around her. Moreover, Doretta was happiest spending her time as an athlete, a passion inspired by her father whom she idolized. She loved nothing more than being outside, particularly at the beach playing volleyball. For five decades and well into her 70s, Doretta could be found in Manhattan Beach, playing beach volleyball with her friends.

Doretta is survived by her three children Scott Daley, Karin Daley Laundreaux and Simone Zemp Concoff; son-in-laws Greg Laundreaux and Andrew Concoff; grandchildren Taylor Daley, Jack Daley, Grayson Daley, Sydney Concoff, and Quintin Concoff; and great-grandchild Layla Abdouni.

Doretta's life has been honored privately among family members. For any desired communication, please reach out to the family at sdzfamilies@gmail.com.