Obituary of Dolores Jean Masker

Dolores Jean (Wheelhouse) Masker

 

Dolores was born March 9^th, 1937, to John and Armista Wheelhouse, the oldest of three children on the family farm near Miller South Dakota. She died March 11, 2024, at age 87 after a very short illness.

 

Dee graduated from Miller (South Dakota) High School in 1955. She went on to nursing school and graduated as an RN in 1958.  Dee married the love of her life, Donald Masker, July 24 1958 following her graduation from nursing school.

 

Dee had a long and fulfilling career as a nurse, retiring as head nurse of surgery and recovery at Queen of Peace Hospital in Mitchell, SD. After retirement, Dee and Don became “snowbirds”, travelling the South in their motor home before heading back home to Mitchell. After her husband’s untimely death, Dee relocated to Fort Atkinson WI to be nearer family.

 

Dolores had a great sense of adventure. There was never a detour she didn’t take, and she was always up for a road trip or traveling to new and far away places. Every wrong turn turned into an exploratory mission, every stranger a friend-to-be.

 

Dee enjoyed art and crafts of all kinds, cooking and recipe collecting, playing cards, and following national politics. She enjoyed nothing more than spending time with her grandkids and great-grandchildren. A wicked game of rummy or slapjack could break out at any time!

 

The family will remember G’ma as a loving and caring, fun loving, and straight-talking confidant. You always knew where you stood with Dee, good or bad, as she would always call you out on your bologna but done in the most loving manner. G’ma wore her heart on her sleeve and a good hug was always available. And if the hug didn’t do the trick, a great and hearty meal was sure to ease what ailed you.

 

Dolores was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Roger, her husband Donald, her daughter Kay Ann, and her sons, James and Jeffrey.

 

Dolores is survived by her brother Richard, her daughters Kathy (Michael) Marr and Lisa Masker; grandchildren Jennifer, Trenton, John, Ryan, Garrett, Joanna, Elizabeth, and seven great-grandchildren.

 

There will be no funeral service, per her wishes.  A private family gathering will be planned for a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com

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