Dorothy Sternaman's Obituary
OCONOMOWOC, WISCONSIN – Dorothy Sternaman, formerly of Decatur, Illinois, passed away peacefully June 24, 2023. Dorothy, or “Dot”, as she was known by family, friends and loved ones, was born October 2, 1929 in Springfield, Illinois to Hilda and Alexander MacMurdo of Auburn, Illinois.
She married Carl M. Sternaman on June 25, 1949. Dot was a faithful friend, a devoted aunt and sister, a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a deeply committed volunteer in the food ministry of her Decatur church, Moundford Free Methodist. After raising her three children she worked for Wallace Laboratories in Decatur. She loved family treasures, embroidery, baking, cooking, music, reading; and, had just ordered her first pair of reading glasses at age 93. Dot’s family meant the world to her. Hers was the home where everyone gathered for special family events. Seven brothers and sisters, their spouses, cousins, second cousins, great aunts and uncles, and family friends were graced with Dot’s hospitality. The door was always open at the Sternaman residence, the front door of her home as well as the door of her heart. Her ability to create feasts for the family, beds for all in every corner of her house, and stay connected to her extended family was a marvel to us all. She taught her children, by example, that being present for family in good times and bad, and staying in touch with her large extended family, was a hallmark of her life. Dorothy’s surviving family will continue to find comfort in cherished memories, loads of laughter, and sorrows shared.
She is survived by her daughter, Carla (Bruce) Meisterman; son, Todd (Cindy) Sternaman; her daughter-in-law, Donna Sternaman; three granddaughters Whitney Hubbard (James) Inscho, Hallie (John) Galvalisi, Ellie Sternaman; three grandsons Nick Sternaman, Andrew Sternaman, and David Sternaman; great-grandson Alexander Galvalisi; sisters, Eleanor Morelock and Nancy Gibb; sister-in-law, Jeanette MacMurdo, and many well-loved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 59 years, Carl Sternaman; and son, Gregg Sternaman; sisters Betty Stokowski, Margaret Pappas, Sandra Kays; and brothers Gavin MacMurdo, Paul MacMurdo. There will be a private family interment service in Decatur.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to be like Dorothy - keep in touch with your relatives and friends, send a birthday card, volunteer and serve others, and laugh through your tears. Memorials may be sent to The Sterny Way Foundation, 148 Adler Drive, Libertyville, IL 60048.
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