Marlene B. Dohr

Marlene B. Dohr January 23, 1937- November 10, 2024
Marlene was born in Newark, New Jersey to Carmella and Stanley Stroud. Though her family moved to Central Florida when she was a teenager, Marlene would forever be a 'Jersey Girl.' She and her brother Robert, their parents, and many Italian relatives enjoyed weekly Sunday dinners at the home of her grandparents. There she learned to cook and her faith was formed as the family prayed for uncles serving in WWII. As a child, she attended Catholic schools; as an adult she chose Barry College in Miami. The Dominican Sisters provided an excellent education as Marlene pursued her Nursing degree. In 1958, she met her future husband, Dick at a Friday night Barry dance. It was truly love at first sight; they married on June 20,1959- just 2 weeks after Marlene's graduation.
As a native Rochesterian, Dick was offered a job in a local architecture firm. He and Marlene settled in the Pittsford area where they raised three children (Peter, Stephanie and Rick). As a stay- at- home mom, Marlene embraced the snowy winters. The family skied together for many years. She enjoyed entertaining and hosted many birthday and dinner parties. She was an active member of AAUW (American Association of University Women) and the Junior League where she formed lifelong friendships. Marlene and Dick were very involved in the St. Louis Church community and enjoyed participating in the McQuaid parent shows.
At age 35, Marlene returned to nursing. She worked part time while her children were in school full-time. She worked in the Adolescent Program at the University of Rochester Medical Center. There she worked with pregnant teens and their families. During the five years in that program, Marlene earned her Master's degree with a special in Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nursing. From there she worked full time at a community mental health center as the lead therapist and Director of group therapy. At that time, she was also an adjunct faculty member at the U of R where she supervised the graduate nursing students' clinical work. Seven years later, she went into private practice where she helped countless individuals until her retirement in 2010.
Marlene and Dick loved to travel; their favorite destination was Italy. Long before the internet was invented, Marlene researched various cities, excursions, hotels and restaurants.She had an uncanny ability to recall a specific meal eaten in Rome circa 1974! In 2004, Marlene and Dick hosted their children and grandchildren during a 2 week stay in Tuscany. It was a magical and meaningful trip for all. When she was no longer able to travel, Marlene's favorite expression was "I'm so glad we did what we did when we did it."
A move to Naples, Florida in 2010 proved to be a new 'adventure.' For more than a dozen years, Marlene and Dick enjoyed the sunshine and warmth of the area. They quickly developed friendships through their church and swimming pool groups, and spent many days with family who also visited Southwest Florida.
In August, 2023 they returned 'up North' residing at Pinehurst in Honeoye Falls, where caring staff and residents embraced them.
Marlene was a loving mother and grandmother. She gave the biggest and best hugs. Her sense of style was all about the sparkle and shine- to match her bubbly personality. She adored their cats, dogs and all 'critters.' Marlene was an eternal optimist; she believed that 'this too shall pass' during difficult challenges. Dick was her best friend, confidant, partner in all things, and the absolute love of her life. Together they modeled the meaning of devotion. All who knew and loved Marlene were made better by having done so.
Marlene was predeceased by her parents, brother Robert Stroud, and daughter, Stephanie McGann. She is survived by her adoring husband, Richard (Dick), sons Peter (Patti) and Rick (Jennifer), son-in-law Kevin McGann (Pam), grandchildren: Carlin (Adam) Bell, Kevin (Briana) McGann, Mackenzie Dohr, Eric (Lael) McGann, Griffin Dohr, Mark McGann, Hollis Dohr, and Lucca Dohr. Great grandchildren: Declan, Archer, Millie, Rory, Sawyer, and Rowe. Many beloved nieces, nephews, sister-in-law, and extended family.
The family will greet friends at St. Paul of the Cross Church- 31 Monroe Street, Honeoye Falls beginning at 9:30 am on Saturday, November 23rd with her funeral Mass to follow at 11 am. A luncheon reception will be provided in the church hall immediately afterward. The burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to charitable organizations as a way to honor Marlene's life of kind service to others.