Wilhelmina Dubson's Obituary
DECATUR-Wilhelmina “Minnie” Elsie Dubson, 95, died Saturday, May 30, 2009 at Imboden Creek Living Center, Decatur.
Private family services will be held. Interment with “Flight Home” Ceremony will be in Fairlawn Cemetery. Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is assisting the family with these arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
Minnie was born on December 2, 1913 in Mascoutah, Illinois. She was the daughter of German immigrants Charles and Mary (Trebing) Pauketat. She married Merle S. Dubson in May 1935. He died in 2001.
Minnie and her husband Merle made their home on Decatur’s west side for over 60 years. During that time she had several part-time jobs including collecting money for garbage service. She was an energetic gardener and an excellent canner – well regarded, for her fruit preserves and pickles. Upon Merle’s retirement in 1975, the couple bought a camper. They spent the next decade camping with friends in a variety of Central Illinois parks. In her 60s, Minnie learned how to crochet. Few friends and family members are without at least one afghan she made for them.
Minnie is survived by daughters Shirley (Jay) Poling of Decatur and Jean (Corky) Merriman of Largo, FL; grandchildren: Mark Merriman of Largo, FL, John Poling of Clinton, Stacy Hayes of Decatur, and Michelle Merriman of Tampa, FL, four great-grandchildren, sister Alvina of Colorado.
She was preceded in death by four brothers and three sisters.
The remarkableness of Minnie’s life was in the ordinariness of how it was lived. A woman from strong German stock, Minnie took pride in raising her girls, keeping a good house, and giving her best in any job no matter how large or small.
Minnie’s family would like to extend its appreciation to the staff of Imboden Creek Living Center for the love and the excellent care they provided her with in the last months of her life.
What’s your fondest memory of Wilhelmina?
What’s a lesson you learned from Wilhelmina?
Share a story where Wilhelmina's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Wilhelmina you’ll never forget.
How did Wilhelmina make you smile?