Dorothy Francis Snow Karpenske, 83, of Fountain, formerly of Chicago, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born March 11, 1943, in Victoria, Arkansas, the daughter of Ezra and Ruby (Clark) Snow.

Dorothy had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and deeply loved. She welcomed everyone to her table, and her kindness was unmatched. There was always room for one more, and her door—and her heart—were always open.

Dorothy loved God deeply and was a faithful servant of the Lord. Her faith was not simply something she believed; it was something she lived, reflected in the way she loved and cared for others. She had a gift for calming your heart and bringing peace simply by being near her.

She dearly loved her husband Gene of 65 years. Their life together was a beautiful testament to love, commitment, and devotion. She was a loving mother and grandmother who treasured her family and cherished the time they spent together, creating memories that will be held close forever.

Dorothy found joy in the simple and beautiful things in life. She loved gardening, sewing, crafting, taking photographs of nature, and cooking for the people she loved. And she never saw a rock she didn’t need to take home. She had an eye for beauty and a heart that found delight in the little things.

Her beautiful smile could light up a room, and her infectious laugh was impossible not to join. She taught us to love big, laugh often, notice the beauty around us, and to sprinkle love into every meal and every moment.

Dorothy’s life was a gift to all who knew her. Her faith, kindness, laughter, and unconditional love will continue to live on in her family and in everyone whose life she touched.

Dorothy is survived by: her husband, Gene Karpenske; her children, Melody (Mike) DiGiovanni, Roxann (Bill) Cole, Gene Karpenski and Felicia (Andy Johnson) Karpenski; 11 grandchildren, Tiffanie (Robert) Mytnik, Michael DiGiovanni, Sam (Amanda) DiGiovanni, Joey Phillips, Kaitlyn (Matt) Jankowski, Christopher Karpenski, Jeremy (Niki) Karpenski, Manny (Allie) Fintikis, Antreas (Ashlynn) Fintikis, Niko Fintikis, and Cory Gerling; 7 great-grandchildren, Robbie, Leo, Wynnie, Thea, Willow, Rowan and Aubrey; 1 great-grandchild on the way, Baby Fintikis due in November; her sisters, Mickey (Ricky) Kunz and Mary Riis; and several nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was preceded in death by: her parents; her sister, Judy Braebeck; and her brothers, Sam Snow and Ezra Snow Jr.

Her table may be quiet now, but the love she gathered around it will remain with us always. And we find comfort knowing that the faithful servant we loved so dearly is now resting in the loving arms of the Lord.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” - 2 Timothy 4:7

Cremation has taken place and private family services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Lakeshore Keepers or to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com