Dorothy S. Graber

Dorothy S. Graber, age 90 of Park River, ND passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025 at the Good Samaritan Society of Park River.
Dorothy S. Spenst was born January 25, 1935 to the late Henry and Susie (Freisen) Spenst in Dresden, ND. She was raised on the family farm just outside of Langdon. Dorothy was a graduate of Mayville Teacher’s College. Her first teaching position was a one room schoolhouse near Alsen, ND. Where she met her husband, Norman. They married June 21, 1959. They settled in Langdon and moved to Park River in 1966. Dorothy taught elementary school in the Park River School District 30+ years. She loved teaching and loved the wonder and curiosity of young children. Her favorite was always story time, where she could share her love of books.
Dorothy was a member of Park River Retired Teachers, Birthday Club, and Coffee Club. She loved visiting with friends, reading, knitting and sewing. She cherished making things for her family and friends and gifting them with love. She and Norman loved music and spent many years enjoying concerts with their son Mike at Chester Fritz Auditorium in Grand Forks. They made several trips to Branson, as well, to take in the musical events. Dorothy enjoyed the years of gathering with family, especially her son Mike and his family and her nieces and nephews.
Dorothy is survived by her son Mike Graber (Valerie Bogert), Park River, ND, granddaughters: Evelyn Brown and April Simmons, and great grandchildren: Bailey Simmons and Jaylyn Dirks. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and infant daughter.
Memorial services will be on Friday, October 31, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at the Tollefson Funeral Home of Park River. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Inurnment will be at Alsen Cemetery in Alsen, ND.

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