Dorene D. Lewis

Dorene D. Lewis, age 90, passed away peacefully at her home on November 14, 2024. She was born February 1, 1934, in Rosebush, Michigan, the daughter of Herman A. and Iva J. (Prout) Dunn. She graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in 1953.
Dorene was independent, fun loving and always put her family first. Family activities and involvement in them were her top priority. She served as President of the Hillcrest School PTA when the children were younger.
Dorene worked at Alma College for 33 years, starting as secretary in the Dean of Student's office and was later promoted to Housing Coordinator. These jobs allowed her to interact with all students on campus throughout her entire career, which she loved. Many students have had lifelong friendships with Dorene.
She loved her flower and vegetable gardens, watching the Detroit Tigers (attending 3 World Series games), reading, travelling, attending Broadway shows, dressing up for Halloween, and listening to Alma College musical performances. She always had a soft spot for dogs and cats, and in recent years, was adopted by two cats.
Dorene was very active in the Alma Highland Festival. From its inception in 1968, Dorene was involved chairing many committees. She also served as secretary on the Executive Board for over 30 years. She was honored as the Festival's Queen Mum during the 50th year festivities.
Dorene was a member of the Alma Woman's Club, patroness for the Alpha Theta Sorority, college liaison as the sorority transitioned to the national Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, a member of Gamma Phi Beta, and served as Board Member emeritus of the Alma College Symphony Orchestra during its active years.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands Frank W. Chapman and Russell M. Lewis, son Ronald J. Chapman, stepdaughters Pam Heisler, Michelle K. Gibson and brother Derry E. Dunn.
Dorene is survived by daughter Cheryl C. Chapman, stepdaughter Janice (Terry) Clements, eight grandchildren, and several great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to G.A.I.N. (Gratiot Animals in Need), Gratiot Commission on Aging-Meals on Wheels, Alma Highland Festival or the Alma College Music Department.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at 11 am at the Alma First United Methodist Church. Interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery, Alma. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 19th, from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at Lux-Moody-Wolfel Funeral Home, Alma.