Eugene And Joan Dorsa

A Love Story for the Ages – Remembering Gene and Joan Dorsa
Beloved parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, Eugene (Gene) Charles Dorsa, 95, and Joan Marie (Finan) Dorsa, 92, peacefully passed away just 11 days apart. Gene on October 17 and Joan on October 28 - a testament to their deep love and lifelong commitment to one another.
Gene was born on March 3, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York, to Genevieve and Vincent Dorsa. A dedicated father, husband, brother, and grandpa, Gene loved his family deeply. He leaves behind his only sister, Patricia, who was a constant source of love and support over the years. His respect for her was immeasurable. Gene was as positive and fun-loving as he was serious and ambitious. His passion for people and business drove a long and successful career, one he truly never retired from. His zest for life extended well beyond the workplace, Gene was an avid sailor, crafting countless, and occasionally hair-raising, memories for his family on the water. He was a gem and beloved by many.
Joan was born on December 18, 1932, in Trenton, New Jersey, to Anna and John Finan. A loving mother, wife, sister, and grandmother, Joan embodied quiet strength and a gentle playfulness that perfectly complemented Gene's spirit. She adored her sister and only sibling, Peggy. Despite the many miles between them, their love for one another remained steadfast and strong, bound by a profound sense of shared history, deep loyalty, and support. Joan was a voracious reader and was often found in the aisles of the Naples Library as a volunteer. She was deeply proud of her children and grandchildren, whom she loved and was always ready to help, even if it meant a very long car ride to get to MN or IN.
Gene and Joan married on September 11, 1954, and built a beautiful life together with four wonderful children. Nothing made them happier than time spent with family – sailing at Madeline Island and Door County, family vacations, reunions in New Jersey, Minnesota, the Outer Banks, and Naples. They shared a deep love for travel and adventure for many years, creating lasting memories. Their love for their siblings and extended families fostered a bond that has carried through the generations. Known lovingly as "GG" and "Mima," they were deeply devoted to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, supportive and present in their lives.
Faith was a guiding force in their marriage and family life. It was both steady and sincere - something they lived quietly through both joy and sorrow, especially after the loss of their beloved youngest daughter, Carol, in 2021. We take comfort in knowing they are now all together.
Survived by: Gene's sister, Patricia Dorsa; daughters Jeanne Ann (Michael) and Barbara (Tom); son Jeffrey (Nancy); six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren (with a tenth expected in the spring); and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Predeceased by: daughter Carol Dorsa; Joan's sister, Peggy Decker; Gene's brothers, Vincent Dorsa and Billy Dorsa.
Visitation will be held at the Church of the Assumption on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 2:00 PM, with a private interment at Resurrection Cemetery, Mendota Heights. Live stream link: www.watchitlivestream.com/Dorsa In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (www.cff.org) or Ovarian Cancer Research (www.ocrahope.org).