Dorothy E. Calhoun

Utica – Mrs. Dorothy E. (Dziedzic) Calhoun, 94, passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at the Abraham House, Rome, with her loving family by her side. Born on November 19, 1930, Dorothy was the daughter of the late Walter and Josephine (Tencza) Dziedzic. She was raised in Utica, graduating from Utica Free Academy. On October 21, 1950, Dorothy was united in marriage to the love of her life, John "Jack" Calhoun, Sr., in Holy Trinity Church. They shared a blessed union of over 71 years, prior to his passing on April 1, 2022. They resided in Norwich and Utica, NY. Dorothy worked for Perry Browne Elementary School, and was active with the Mothers of Twins Association, both in Norwich, NY. After relocating back to Utica NY, she worked at the Boston Store. She was a ward secretary for the pediatric unit at St. Elizabeth's Hospital and was an administrator at Dr. Brennan's Pediatric office in Utica. Dorothy loved listening to Glen Miller and polka music, but her favorite song was "Proud Mary" by Creedence Clearwater Revival. She and her husband were excellent dancers, and quite often put on a show at wedding receptions. When there was a friendly family poker game going on, you would often find Dorothy sitting in as well. She made delicious Polish dishes, which reached legendary status. Her cookie and brownie baking mastery was favored by all. Her grandchildren's faces lit up when they found out they were going to Grandma's to visit. Dorothy had such an infectious smile, always exuding warmth and goodness. The love that was spread by her is endless and forever. She is survived by her daughter, Denise (Jan) Van Gerner, Utica, NY; sons John Calhoun, Jr., Utica, NY, and Daniel Calhoun, Frankfort, NY. A sister, Shirley (Dziedzic ) Newell, Springfield, OR; grandchildren Beth O'Hara, Rori Calhoun, Sean Fiore, Jessica DeJohn, and Nicholas Calhoun; great-grandchildren, Jim and Cara Vasile, Elizabeth and Bobby O'Hara and Andrew Sutherland. She leaves many nieces, nephews, and cousins, too numerous to mention, from Oregon, Michigan, Florida, and New York. Dorothy is predeceased by her parents, Walter and Josephine Dziedzic, husband, John J Calhoun Sr, and her beloved grandson and great-granddaughter, Joseph DeJohn and Chloe Calhoun. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated on Saturday, June 28th, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. The family will receive guests following the Mass. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Dorothy's name may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. (hospicecareinc.org) or The Abraham House (theabrahamhouse.org). Envelopes will be available at the Mass. Mrs. Calhoun's family graciously extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Hospice staff for the wonderful care provided to Dorothy. Messages of sympathy at www.mmknfd.com To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Dorothy, please visit our Tree Store.