Dora Kay Aldrich, 83, passed away on March 14, 2024 at Good Samaritan Society, Estherville, Ia. She was born near Scibner, Nebraska to Rudolph and Jeannette (Krenzer) Schroedter on April 25, 1940.
Dora graduated from North Bend high school in North Bend, Nebraska in 1958 and Tarkio College in Tarkio, Missouri in 1962. After graduating college, Dora taught high school English and Speech at Audubon High School in Audubon, Iowa. On August 1, 1964, she married Larry Aldrich in North Bend, Nebraska. They lived in Audubon for over 20 years.
Dora was a homemaker after their two children were born. She was a very avid book reader. Dora was a leader in the Presbyterian Church Sunday school program, served on numerous committees within the church, and she helped tutor a refugee family in English. Dora loved the theatre; on stage at Tarkio, directing plays at Audubon High School, and never missing a production at the Okoboji Summer Theatre.
In 1984, the family moved to Estherville, Iowa, where they purchased Rylin Office Technology and operated it together for 15 years. The inside operation of the store was where Dora spent her days in sales, purchasing, and accounting.
In her retirement, Dora tried her hand at learning Spanish and painting and, of course, continued to be an avid reader. Dora always kept her positive attitude and great sense of humor throughout her life.
She was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and was at Good Samaritan Care Center for over 16 years. Her family appreciates the special care the Good Sam staff gave to her.
Dora is survived by her husband Larry, daughter Nicole Stolte, son Stacy Aldrich (Rachel), grandsons Reese Stolte and Casper Aldrich, sisters-in-law Shirley Aldrich and Nancy Jones, plus many nieces and nephews.
Dora was preceded in death by her parents, step-father Bernard Emmanuel, brother Bill Schroedter and sister-in-law Barbara Schroedter, brothers-in-law Robert Aldrich and Dave Jones, son-in-law James Stolte and special Aunt Milly Gibson.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to a charity or arts program of your choice is welcomed.
Date for the memorial service is pending. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.henryolsonfuneral.com.
