Evelyn Dorn

Evelyn Dorn was a wonderful woman, who lived a long and wonderful life, a life full of family, faith and fond memories. Some are fulfilled by their careers, but Evelyn’s greatest joy was found in what she did for others. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, as charming as she was charitable. Most of all, Evelyn’s life was a gift to all who knew her.

Evelyn’s story began on a cool fall day in 1918, as the leaves began to turn bright color in Fillmore Township, Michigan. Those were times of trial and triumph, which saw the defeat of the Germans and their allies, and the triumphant end of World War I. On October 6, 1918, Henry and Mary (Alberti) Mulder had even more reason to celebrate, with the birth of a baby girl, daughter they named Evelyn Mae.

Evelyn was the second-youngest of nine children in the large family’s home. She grew up in the Holland area, where she attended Holland Public Schools, and was raised in the Christian Reformed Church. She graduated from Holland High School in 1937, and soon found work as a cook at Parke Davis nearby. It was the perfect job for Evelyn, who was an incredible cook.

In 1940, Evelyn married the love of her life, Harold “Curly” Dorn, the beginning of a beautiful marriage. Before they knew it, the young couple was the proud parents of four fine children, daughters Judy and Barbara, and sons Steve and David.

Evelyn was an amazing wife and mother, who put her family foremost in her life. She dedicated her days to caring for her family and friends, and in truly living her faith. Evelyn made every birthday and holiday a memorable, special event, and delighted in gathering her family around her.

Evelyn eventually went to work for the West Ottawa School District, where she remained for 21 years, until retiring in 1978. In retirement, she loved playing golf with her beloved husband Curly, and they were longtime, active members of the Holland Country Club. She loved tending to her garden, a lifelong pleasure for her, and she was an active, charter member of the Rose Park Reformed Church, as well.

Most of all, Evelyn loved to help others, from her family and friends, to the many charitable organizations she contributed to over the years.

Evelyn’s beloved husband sadly died in 1998, but she persevered, thanks to her family and her faith. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren, who always brightened her days.

Eventually, Evelyn’s health began to decline, as the years took their toll on her. Sadly, she died on Monday, October 27, 2008 at her home. She was 90.

Evelyn was such a wonderful woman, as compassionate as she was benevolent, dedicated and devoted to caring for those around her. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend, a great Christian lady, and a gift to all who knew her. She will be greatly missed.

Evelyn is survived by daughters, Judy and Bob Balfoort of Pompano Beach, FL, Barbara and John Dalman of West Palm Beach, FL, sons, Steve and Rosemary Dorn of Holland, David and Hazel Dorn of Clarksville, MI, a sister Verna Boeve of Holland, 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, and a brother in law Oliver (Alma) Dorn of Holland. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Curly in 1998, 3 brothers and 4 sisters. The family will receive friends Thursday from 5-7 PM at the Northwood Chapel of Dykstra Life Story Funeral Home, 295 Douglas Ave, Holland. Funeral services will be held 1:00 PM Friday at the Rose Park Reformed Church 14241 Rose Park Dr. Holland. Memorials may be given to Re-Member Indian Charity. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to sign a guest register.