Dorothy Gorecki

Dorothy June Gorecki, 93, of Milaca, passed away October 11, 2025 at Quiet Oaks Hospice House in St. Cloud, MN. She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Benedict Gorecki on July 9, 2016.

Dorothy June Marion was born June 17, 1932 in Williston, North Dakota. Benedict and Dorothy were married February 14, 1952.

Dorothy was a devout Catholic and attended St Mary’s Catholic Church for 57 years, in their small town of Milaca. She had many interests in her lifetime from raising their family, cooking and baking, gardening, waltzing and fox-trotting at ballrooms with Ben every chance they could, especially to their favorite waltz, Somewhere, My Love. They enjoyed spending time at their cabin on Briggs Lake and their condo in Florida with family and friends, and attending any event their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were involved in. Just to name a few, as there were many more.

Dorothy was a person with great moral character and was very independent. She was fun-loving and witty; she was truly a loyal friend and a wonderful listener with a great sense of humor! She always had time for family and friends to stop in, sit down, have a cup of coffee, and laugh while sharing stories. It was definitely a plus if someone would show up with a bowl of Panera chicken wild rice soup or a Bismarck…her favorite!

Everyone will remember her “little Abby”, her Australian labradoodle that she and Ben adopted two months before his death. Abby lived to the age of 15, and Dorothy had to put her to sleep this past August due to failing health. Dorothy was very lonely without Abby and Dorothy’s health also seemed to decline thereafter.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Linda Locher of Cold Spring; grandchildren and their spouses and great-grandchildren. She also leaves many relatives and close friends who will miss her immensely.

Preceding Dorothy in death were her husband, Benedict (2016); children, Sandra Gorecki (1975), Steven Gorecki (1996), Mary Rahm (2010), Kate (Barbara) Gorecki (2018), and son-in-law, Ray Locher (2023).

Dorothy’s family would like to express sincere appreciation and gratitude to all those that were a part of Dorothy’s life, especially after Ben died. She cherished her family and friends who were at her side at a moment’s notice. Their kind deeds and friendships will never be forgotten.

A special thank you to the staff from CentraCare Hospice and those who provided care at the Quiet Oaks Hospice House. It was Dorothy’s wish to reside at the hospice house during the final days of her life. She, and her family members are very thankful for their tender loving care and support during the end of her journey. Also, a special thank you to Dr. Abigail Taylor at CentraCare for being Dorothy’s doctor for many years and contributing to her long healthy life.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, October 17, 2025 at 11 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Milaca, MN. Interment will follow at St. Elizabeth’s Cemetery in Brennyville, MN. Visitation will take place from 9 – 11 AM at the church on Friday. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Quiet Oaks Hospice House or CentraCare Hospice.