The Van Wert County Courthouse

Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024

Dorothy F. Schaffner

Dorothy F. “Dottie” (Piersol) Schaffner died peacefully on Monday, February 16, 2015, at her residence in Van Wert at the age of 85 after a battle with cancer.

Dorothy F. 'Dottie' Schaffner
Dorothy F. ‘Dottie’ Schaffner

Dottie was born March 31, 1929, in Cleveland, the daughter of Merle F. and Dorothy L. Piersol, who both preceded her in death.

Survivors include two children, Linna S. (Paul) Kelly of Convoy and Mark (Mary Ann Stambaugh) Schaffner of Mooresville, North Carolina; a sister, Linna Van Nette of Longwood, Florida; two brothers, Dan (Maureen Donnelly) Piersol of Jackson Mississippi, and Gary (Rose Ann) Piersol of Toledo; five grandchildren, Jessica (Travis) Raker of Orlando, Florida, Linna N. Kelly of Convoy, Mary Beth, Jack and Grant Schaffner, all of Mooresville, North Carolina; and a great-granddaughter, Maeve Noelle Raker of Orlando.

A brother-in-law, Terry Van Nette, also preceded her in death.

She graduated from Bowling Green State University with a degree in education, majoring in English, journalism and Latin. She married Jack E. Schaffner, her college sweetheart, on June 17, 1951. He also preceded her in death.

Dottie touched many students’ lives during her career. She began her teaching career at Wren High School and continued at Grover Hill High School before retiring from Lincolnview High School.

After retirement, Dottie devoted much time and energy to the Van Wert Woman’s Club, serving in several officers’ roles and frequently providing delicious catering meals. She was known for her cooking and especially for her baking abilities. She loved people, was an avid reader and loved to laugh.

She adored and doted on her grandchildren, supporting them in all their endeavors. She was thrilled to meet her great-granddaughter in November.

Honoring Dottie’s request, a private family funeral will be held.

There will be no calling hours.

Preferred memorials: Van Wert County Council on Aging or Van Wert County Historical Society.

Arrangements were handled by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

The family would like to thank Community Health Professionals staff members for their care and dedication.

POSTED: 02/16/15 at 3:49 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries