Dorothy Fredenberg

Dorothy Mae Fredenberg died of cancer Nov. 19, 2006 at home with her family by her side.

Dorothy (Dottie) was born July 29, 1933, to Anton and Blanche Nelson. She lived most of her young life with her family on a ranch north of Zurich. In 1966, she met and married the love of her life, Duane Fredenberg, and moved to Whitefish, making it their home for 37 years.

Their union joined two wonderful families and then added more children to make their household complete. Dorothy was blessed with 16 precious children: Grant, Amy (Scott), Shelly (James), Brenda (Trent), Janine (Don), Karla (Elmer), Bruce, Cyndi (David), Greg (Trina), Michael, Marlene (Jim), Joe (Mona), Elaine (David), Donna (Thor).

Dorothy was more than an eternal, faithful mother, wife, sister, aunt and grandmother; she was a devoted friend. She leaves behind many amazing memories with her family and friends that lasted a lifetime, and she cherished every moment with them. Whether she was cooking for the crew, caring for someone, extending her motherhood to her children's friends, playing cards or dominos, she did it with passion.

All she knew was giving her all with generosity and love. Sunshine and a full house encompassed with love and laughter is what she lived for. She spent her last three years fulfilling her dream, living on Flathead Lake, embracing its never-ending beauty.

Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents and is now home with her beloved angels in heaven, Pamela and Daniel.

She leaves behind a miraculous legacy for all to remember and is survived by her husband Duane of 40 years and her 14 children, 26 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, sisters Helen Kessner (Kenneth), Agnes Chapin (Richard) and brother Les Nelson (Colleen), numerous nieces, nephews and wonderful, dedicated friends.

Memorial services were held at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home in Kalispell on Nov. 25, 2006.

In the spirit of Dorothy's generosity, the family suggests donations be made to Hospice of Kalispell in lieu of flowers.