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Dorothy A. Desens Obituary – 2/20/2015


Dorothy Alice (Lemke) Desens, age 100, of Litchfield, died Friday, Feb. 20, 2015, at the Emmanuel Home in Litchfield.

She was born April 2, 1914, in Litchfield, the daughter of August and Marie (Koerner) Lemke.

Dorothy grew up on the family farm near Litchfield, and graduated from the Litchfield High School. Upon graduating from high school, she attended beauty school.

She was baptized, and later confirmed in the Lutheran faith; and was presently a member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Litchfield. Dorothy was a dedicated church organist for over 50 years.

She was united in marriage to Arthur Erhardt Desens; together, they made their home on the family farm and raised three sons.

Dorothy was employed as a hair dresser for several years.

She loved music, and enjoyed playing organ, piano, and guitar. Dorothy taught numerous children to play piano and guitar over the years. She also enjoyed singing, even singing songs in German.

In addition, Dorothy enjoyed spending time with her family, especially during the holidays.

Dorothy will be missed by her family and her friends. She is survived by her son, Marlyn (Helen) Desens of St. Louis Park; two grandsons, Arthur Jason Desens and Derek (Rachael) Desens; one great-grandson, Sebastian Ronald Desens; siblings Ted Lemke of St. Cloud, and Rose Stegner of Monticello; daughters-in-law Mindy Desens of Litchfield, and Karen Desens of Roseville; goddaughter Anna Mae Wigen; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur; sister Bertha (Byrdie); two sons, Ronald Desens and Dave Desens; and her parents.

A funeral service took place Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 1 p.m. at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Litchfield, with the Rev. James Panning officiating. Interment followed at the Ripley Cemetery.

There was visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.

The Johnson Funeral Home in Dassel handled the funeral arrangements.

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