Dorothy M. Brinkoetter Raver's Obituary
Dorothy M. Brinkoetter Raver of Decatur passed away on her 91st birthday Saturday, September 24, 2016 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Medical Center in Mattoon.
Dorothy was born on September 24, 1925 in Decatur the daughter of Bernard J. and Florence Marie (Appenzeller) Brinkoetter. She attended Decatur High School and Our Saviors School of Nursing in Jacksonville, IL. Dorothy began a career in real estate in 1964 and became the first woman president of the Decatur Board of Realtors in 1980 owning her own small business. She was a lifetime member of the National Board of Realtors, Dove Inc., Kiwanians Club, A & Z (Elk Women’s Association), All States Club, and several bridge clubs.
Dorothy married Lucien Allen Chaney in 1946, Elbert A. Harper in 1976, and Dwight L. Raver in 1994, all preceding her in death.
Surviving are her sons, Captain David A. Chaney, USN (Ret.), Esq. (Juanita) of Jacksonville, FL; and Dr. Craig B. Chaney (Peggy) of Mattoon, IL; honorary daughter, Linda Locke (Ron) of New Athens, IL; grandchildren, Jared C. Chaney, Esq. of MN; Brandon L. Chaney, former USA 1st LT (Sarah) of IN; and three great-grandchildren.
Dorothy was also preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Carl and Tom
Brinkoetter; and sister, Evelyn Lonergan.
Dorothy was a lifelong resident of Decatur. Her life was filled with many close friends. She was a uniquely friendly, loving, and happy person; always complimenting with a smile.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 AM Wednesday, September 28, 2016 in Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Rev. Rick Weltin as Celebrant. Visitation will be 9-11 AM Wednesday in the church. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Our Lady of Lourdes, Dove Inc., or Macon County Animal Shelter.
The family of Dorothy M. Brinkoetter Raver is being served by Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Avenue, Decatur, IL. Send condolences to the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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