OSAGE CITY — Dorothy J. Meyer, Osage City, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022, at her home, surrounded by her children. She was 88.
She was born Dorothy Jean VanHorn Aug. 19, 1934, the fourth child of Irvin and Thelma (Moore) VanHorn, in Dayton, Ohio. She attended first through eighth grade at Huffman Elementary, a block from their home. She began her freshman year of high school at Stivers High School, but when her mother died suddenly in December 1948, Dorothy moved to Osage City to live with a dear uncle and aunt, William and Julia Vigola. She continued her education at Osage City High School, where she played the clarinet in the school band, was a cheerleader, and was involved in numerous clubs and activities. She went on to obtain a two-year teaching certificate from Emporia Teachers College, where she was a member of Sigma, Sigma, Sigma sorority.
It was at Osage City High School that Dorothy met Earl H. Meyer. They were married June 13, 1954, and began their life together in Fort Benning, Ga., where Earl graduated from OCS school prior to serving active duty in Germany, from 1954 to 1957. Upon their return from overseas, they took up residence in a home on the Meyer family farm.
She began her working career in Topeka, in 1958, with Marvin Maydew Accounting firm. In 1962, she began working for her high school friend Bill Latimer, at Burgess, Latimer, Miller Engineers PA. In 1980, she was elected Financial Vice President of Energy Management & Control Corporation (EMC2), alongside its parent company Latimer, Miller, Sommers & Wallace Engineers, PA, as secretary and office manager. She was also an officer of Latimer, Miller, Sommers & Wallace, PA. In addition, she belonged to Women in Construction (WIC) and served as president.
Eleven years after Earl and Dorothy married, in 1965, their son, Charles, was born, followed by daughters, Mary, in 1967, and Julie, in 1970. Despite her full-time work, she was a mother first. Their home was efficient, organized and full of love. Dorothy was a caretaker, taxi driver, cook, counselor, domestic engineer and a best friend.
She was a Kansas State Wildcat fan through and through. She held seats for 30 years at Bill Snyder Stadium, traveled to games with her family and friends, and attended multiple bowl games. She especially loved the years 2008-2012 and 2019-2022, when her grandsons were members of the Kansas State football teams.
As grandchildren arrived, Dorothy loved finding activities to do with them, included baking cakes, Dollar General visits, going to parks and zoos, attending Broadway shows and so much more.
In March 2008, Dorothy lost her high school sweetheart. A year later, she moved from the farm home into Osage City. There, she began a new chapter in life, rekindling friendships, participating in hometown activities and clubs, and traveling. The “Girls of ’34” reunited and spent many wonderful times together.
Dorothy belonged to the United Methodist Church women’s group, Red Hat Society, and the Laffalot Club. She volunteered and supported ECAT, and served her family and community members often. Her love for life and lessons taught will not be forgotten.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Earl, on March 21, 2008; her sister, Elizabeth VanHorn; and a brother, Kenneth VanHorn.
Dorothy is survived by her children, Charles Meyer (Cathy), Osage City, Mary Mariner (Blessing), Topeka, and Julie Friesen (Andy), Basehor; her brother, Edwin VanHorn, Topeka; five grandchildren, Tomasi Mariner, Elizabeth Langi, Earl Mariner, Jace Friesen and Delaney Friesen; seven great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family; and a community of dear friends.
Funeral services were 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7, at the First United Methodist Church, Osage City, followed with burial in the Osage City Cemetery.
Condolences may be left at VanArsdaleFS.com.
