Dorothy Stroh

Memorial services for Dorothy J. Stroh, of Gregory, SD, were held June 3, 2025, at Michael J. Fitzmaurice Veterans Home in Hot Springs, SD, officiated by Chaplain Morris Nelson. Committal was at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, SD. Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home of Hot springs, SD, was in charge of the arrangements. Dorothy was born on November 4, 1924, in Burke, SD, to Ora Sufficool and Richard Klinger. Dorothy graduated from Burke High School in 1942, and soon after went to work at Boys’ Town in Omaha, NE. During World War II, she contributed to the war effort by working on the blueprints for bombers. On March 24, 1948, she married Edrine Stroh, with whom she built a beautiful life and family.

Throughout her life, Dorothy was hardworking, kind, and deeply devoted to family and community. After marrying Edrine, she worked on several farms in Gregory and Tripp Counties before moving to Herrick, SD, where she owned the Herrick Cream & Egg Station. She sold baby chickens and feed, served as a dry-cleaning drop-off location, and made lasting connections with her community.

Later, Dorothy moved to Gregory, where she worked as a janitor for the Gregory Elementary School. She then took a position at Laprath Hardware & Furniture Store until moving to the VA Retirement Home with Edrine in 1990. Even in retirement, Dorothy remained committed to serving others, mending clothing for residents and continuing her passion for sewing and quilting. She lovingly sewed satin liners for the wooden caskets crafted by veterans, ensuring dignity for those who had served.

Dorothy Jane Klinger Stroh, a beloved mother, grandmother, and community member, passed away May 27, 2025, in Hot Springs, SD. Dorothy is survived by her loving children Linda Kaye Buell, Ellsworth (Teddi), Lois Jean (Frank) Pontilla, and Bonnie May; eight grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Edrine; son Donald Dean; son-in-law Karl Buell; siblings Hazel Klinger, Arlie Klinger, Grace (Ervin) Stricklett, Wilma (Harold) Klein, twin sisters Alice Irene and Olive Jean (Walter) Schenefeld; and one grandchild.