Dorothy L. Snuggs

Dorothy Louise Snuggs, 101, of Machesney Park, passed away on September 19, 2025, after a life rich with love, faith, and family. Born July 11, 1924, in Toledo, Ohio, she was the daughter of Robert and Anna (Richard) Burdett. Dorothy graduated from Waite High School in 1942 and went on to live through more than a century of remarkable change and history, always meeting life with grace, humor, and strength. She was united in marriage to Gerald Strawser in January 1946, and together they shared 29 years of marriage. In June 1988, she married her second husband, Ivan Snuggs. Their 25 years together were filled with joy, laughter, and many evenings spent dancing at the Moose Lodges in Rockford and Belvidere. Dorothy worked as a Clerk Typist at Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, and later in the Social Services Department at Park Strathmoor Nursing Home after moving to the Rockford area. But her true legacy was the way she cared for others and the joy she brought into their lives. She lived fully and stayed active well into her later years. Dorothy loved bowling in leagues, playing golf, and was a proud and faithful member of Caledonia Congregational Church, where she served with the Ladies Aid Society. She enjoyed puzzles, Bingo, and playing cards-Skip-Bo being her favorite. Her greatest happiness, however, came from time spent with her family, who will remember her wisdom, warmth, and the love she poured into every relationship. Dorothy is survived by her children, Cathleen (James Matsumoto) Strawser, Terry Strawser, and Robert (Martha) Strawser; stepchildren, Susan Harnish, Kim (Dan) Anderson, Scott (Cheri) Snuggs, and Leann (Greg) Kuhlemeyer; grandchildren, Amanda (Shane) York, Emily (Robert) Seagren, Monica Esquivias, Brian (Stacy) Strawser, and Kathryn Grindle; step-grandchildren, Craig Harnish, Jamie Harnish, and Maggie (Mitchell) Snuggs-McCain; 13 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Gerald Strawser; her second husband, Ivan Snuggs; half-sister, Mary Else; stepson-in-law, Dennis Harnish; and dear friends, Mickey and Jim Debth. Dorothy's family is deeply grateful for the loving care she received from TLC Assisted Living Community and Sanctuary Hospice, especially nurse Dana. A Memorial Service will be held on October 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Caledonia Congregational Church, 14730 Oak St., Caledonia, followed by a reception in the church hall. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family. Share a memory or condolence at www.graceFH.com.

Dorothy L. Snuggs

July 11, 1924 - September 19, 2025