IDA ELAINE DOLESY

IDA ELAINE DOLESY

     It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news of the passing of our Mom, Ida Elaine Dolesy (Matson). Born in Merrillan, WI, Jan. 13, 1932, passed Oct. 13, 2023. 

     Mom, Gramma, Granny, and Ida Mae are a few of the well-known names she will be remembered for, by her nine grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Ida left school her senior year to marry Charles Dolesy, to begin a 64-year marriage. She did go back to school to get her high school diploma in the 70s because she wanted to be a good example to her family. Like many youngsters of that time, Mom and Dad met in Hatfield where they both were good roller skaters and dancers. They rented several farms before buying what became the family farm near Disco in 1965. Together, they raised a family of six.

     Mom never shied away from farm work, even volunteering to help with weekly calf pen cleaning duties when she thought Dad was being too strict with the boys. She hunted deer and everyone knew Mom’s deer stand at deer season. Her green thumb allowed her to grow beautiful flowers and vegetables that helped feed the family. Her greatest love was the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who loved and admired her. Her smile lit up every time one came to visit, and it didn’t matter if that one was 48 years old or four years old. She will be forever known for her kindness, gentle nature, work ethic and legacy of love she leaves behind. 

     Ida was preceded in death by her husband, Charles, of 64 years; infant daughter, Susan; son, David; daughter-in-law, Virginia Dolesy; Donny Brown, whom our parents thought of as a son; further preceding her are her parents, Edwin and Dora Matson; siblings, Ervin, Ella, Inez, Phyllis, Orville, Elvina and Helen.

     She is survived by sons, Charles, Randy (Gloria), Kevin (Joan), Jim (Alicia); and daughter, Cindy Leitz (Robert). 

     Mom was blessed to have the greatest neighbors, Steve and Becky Markee, helping to watch over her. The Dolesy family will forever be grateful for the compassionate and loving care mom was given over the years by Dr. Leece. To the nursing and hospitalist staff at Gundersen, “in our hardest moments, you provided a light against the dark.” Thank you for what you do each day.

     A private graveside service will be held Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023, followed by a public celebration of life at Kal’s Korner in Hixton at 12:30 p.m. 

     The Jensen-Modjeski Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements, 715-963-2311.