Dorothy “Dodie” Mae (MacInnis) Shafer, 69, of Plymouth, died unexpectedly of natural causes at her home Sunday evening, April 1st 2012.
Dodie was born in Nottingham, England on February 25, 1943. At the age of three, she came to Canada with her mother Dorothy Joan (Stevenson) MacInnis, who under the War Brides Act, married a Canadian Armed Forces soldier, Charles Lester MacInnis. They lived in Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, Canada, until 1959 when the family moved to Plymouth, Indiana.
Dodie graduated from Plymouth High School in the Class of 1961. On August 13, 1993 in the U.S. District court house in South Bend, she took the oath to become a naturalized citizen of the United States. On June 13, 1964 she was united in marriage to Eldon D. Shafer in the church they both would be supportive members of for the next 50 years; Plymouth Church of the Brethren. It’s comforting to know that during this Holy Week she is in the hands of the Lord and the presence of all the family that have gone before her. She now awaits the reunion of those to come; to sit with her for a cup of tea. Whether it was her English heritage, or not, she simply loved a cup of tea. She dreamed about times spent on the water on Prince Edward Island and of Anne of Green Gables. She was also a great lover of her dogs over the years and an avid Notre Dame fan. Her enthusiastic cheering could be heard by many during football season.
Prior to her marriage, Dodie worked for Wagner Industries and then for 26 years as a cashier for the Plymouth High School cafeteria. She dearly loved interacting with her co-workers, the teachers, and the students.
Her husband Eldon survives with the three sons whom she loved very much. They will miss the talks they often shared on a wide array of topics–from current events to everyday life. Her first son, Dr. Mark Shafer, born April 16, 1966 and Dr. Elaine Shafer live in Edwardsburg, MI and gave her three wonderful grandchildren: Andrew, Benjamin, and Sarah. Her second son, Mr. Todd Shafer, born May 28, 1968 and Mrs. Pam Shafer live in Plymouth, IN and gave her two wonderful grandchildren: Nathanael and Marilla. Her third son, Mr. Jeffrey Shafer, born December 9, 1974 lives in South Bend, IN.
Her siblings include two brothers; Sinclair (Sue) MacInnis of Kingston, Ontario, Canada and Charles (Georgy) MacInnis of Houston, Texas and a sister (who is like a daughter); Beryl (Greg) Frenger of Holt, Michigan. Several cousins from Canada also survive, whom she loved very much and planned to see this summer. She was preceded in death by her parents and many close relatives from Prince Edward Island.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 5th from 4 – 8 p.m. in the Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, 1100 N. Michigan St. Plymouth. Services will be held on Friday, April 6th at 11 a.m. in the Plymouth Church of the Brethren, 1130 N. Michigan St. Plymouth, where friends may call after 10 a.m. until time of services.
A graveside service will take place on Saturday, April 7th at 2 p.m. in the New Oakhill Cemetery on South Michigan St. Plymouth.
Memorial gifts may be made to the church or Plymouth High School “Helping Students Fund” for those students in need, which always greatly concerned Dodie. c/o Plymouth High School 1 Big Red Drive, Plymouth, IN 46563.
Janet Metsker Smith says
Dorothy\’s Family,
I remember Dorothy coming to PHS. A privilege to have her join the class of 1961.
We didn\’t stay close but would meet occassionally and she always had a smile; always a high school friend.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
1961 PHS Classmate
Janet Metsker Smith
Heather Johnson says
I am so very sorry to hear about Dodie\’s passing. She was such a great lady and will be truly missed. I first met her in high school and then got to know and appreciate her even more so when she & my mom became friends. Take care; your entire family is in our prayers. If you need anything, please let me know.
Sandra Skipp says
Love you Dodie…………From all the Kelver\’s
Joe and Carolyn (Long) Franco says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Carol Smith Finkbiner (Connie\'s daughter) says
I am so saddened to learn of Dodie\’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Kay Bauer says
Dear Sinclair, Beryl and Charlie,
We are so sorry for the loss of your loved sister. You are in our thoughts and prayers at a sad and difficult time. We loved your mom and dad, too, when they were our neighbors on Louisa Street back in the 1960s.
Our son, Matt, was 3 when he made \”cookies\” and sold them in the neighborhood. Your sister and parents were so kind to him — they bought his \”cookies\” and told him he could just keep them. He was astonished at their generosity (and we loved them for their nurturing souls).
Dave and Kay (Murray) Bauer
Todd Jenkins says
Dodie, it was both an honor and a pleasure to be a part of your life and family and I always enjoyed our time together. May you rest in peace and watch over your wonderful family.
Todd Jenkins
East Lansing, Michigan
Donna Belstra says
I am so,so very sorry..I worked with Dodie for years–she was such a wonderful person–I lost my daughter 5 years ago; and she was such a strengh for me.She helped me so–She will always have a special place in my heart.
Angie Stevens says
Dear Shafer family,
Darren & I remember your motherly fondly. What a beautiful lady with a heart of gold.
We are so sorry for your unexpected loss and send you hugs and prayers to help you through this time.
God Bless,
Darren & Angie Stevens
Lopez Family says
Dear Shafer Family ~
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our continued thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Your mom was a very sweet and kind person, always had a smile.
Chris & Karen Lopez
Sara Keyser says
Todd,
You and your family are in my heart and prayers. I am so sorry for the loss your loss. Thinking of you yesterday, today and in the future.
Sara
Patti Finkbiner says
Our thoughts and prayers be with you. I have great memories of Mrs. Shafer, Her Mom and My Grandma Smith sitting down for a visit. Our God\’s Blessings be upon you of your time of need.
Jimmie and Patti (Finkbiner) Anderson
Connie Smith\’s Granddaughter.
Denise A. (Gorom) Schwaberow says
I have so many fond memories of Dodie. She always made me feel so welcomed in the Shafer home. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all. I can only hope the love she gave to you all will help you heal. And she did, love you all, so much!
Brenda Petry says
Dear Shafer family–
I was so surprised and saddened to hear this news. I have fond memories of Dodie, from growing up at the Plymouth church. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Peace, Brenda Petry
John Salter says
Eldon and family … we were shocked and saddened to learn of Dodie\’s sudden passing. We were hoping that you would be able to travel to PEI this summer for a holiday and to visit with family. Our thought and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
A memorial donation will be made in Dodie\’s name to the Plymouth High School \”Helping Students Fund\”.
John and Deborah Salter
Terry R. Greene says
Very sorry for your loss.
Dena McLochlin says
So sorry for your loss. Dodie was a sweet and precious lady. Praying for strength and comfort for your family during this difficult time.
The McLochlin Family
Carla Vautour says
Deepest Sympathies , you are in our prayers.
Sincerely Carla Vautour, Eloi Vautour and Nancy Tremblay. From New Brunswick.
Jean Thom says
SinClair (Sue) Mac Innis and family.
At this sad time of the lost of your sister our thoughts go out to you. Sincere
sympahty at this time and have a safe return back home.
,Sister-in-law Freda (Eloi) and Gisele.from Adamsville New-Brunswick
Sister-in-law Jean (Sid) and Mark from Trenton Ontario
Shirley Mercer says
For Sinclair, Sue McInnis, and family.
So sorry I couldn\’t be there for you at this most difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with you, please take care and God Bless.
Ella and Ugene says
Sinclair and Sue McInnis and family
So very sorry to hear about your sister, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time, with deepest condolences. Take care, God Bless
Gayle Sampson says
To Mark and Elaine and family,
My sympathy in the unexpected loss of your mother. I empathize in how that may be a stunner for you; yet a gratitude that your mother lived a full and engaged life. I appreciate the Holy Week …cup of tea in the tribute, believing that our Loved Ones remain active in being themselves, through the graciousness of our Lord. My mother Maxine also had English ancestry, loved her friends like the characters in Anne of Green Gables, and enjoyed our travels to south east Canada. Perhaps they will have a cup of tea while they wait a bit.
Here is a favorite verse from Emily Dickinson, originally shared with me at a time of loss:
This world
is not conclusion;
A sequel stands beyond,
Invisible, as music,
But positive,
as sound.
Love and Blessings, Gayle Sampson
Janice Combs says
My deepest sympathy for your family during this very difficult times. May God grace guide you all through this difficult time. Dodie is a wonderful woman and will be sorely missed by many. You all have a lifetime of wonderful memories – charish them and celebrate her life!
Dick Tobias says
I was so sorry to read about the passing of Dodie while I was out of the state. I had many fond memories of Dodie during our lunch discussions. She will always be remembered by her cheerfulness and serving the students at PHS. I feel very fortunate to have known her during my tenure as Principal. My heartful condolences to the family. Thank you for sharing her with Plymouth High School.
Dick Tobias
Principal. PHS
Derek and Jodi Eveland says
Shafer Family,
We are so sorry for your unexpected loss. Derek and I enjoyed talking with Dorothy in church. She was always pleasant and had a smile on her face. She will be greatly missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Derek and Jodi Eveland
Jodie Mercer says
To the Shafer and MacInnis families:
I\’m so sorry to hear of your great loss. My God be with all of you and help you through this difficult time with courage, strength, love and guidance.
-Jodie Mercer
(Niece of Susan and Sin MacInnis)
Karyn MacDonald says
Dear Eldon,
I was saddened to hear of Dodies\’ death. It had been so nice to meet the two of you at Bonnie & Mickeys\’ celebration here on Prince Edward Island. I too, believe in the Lord and although she is gone from us it is such a comfort to know that she is with Him now. Please know that we are saying prayers for your family at this difficult time.
Karyn MacDonald(Preston\’s daughter-in-law)
Shirley A. Gidley says
Oh Dodie. Sure miss that smiling face and all those great conversations that we have had over the years.
Your exuberance, positive attitude, and love for so many people and \”things\” inspired so many.
For her family, know that she was admired and loved by so many.
donna whitmer says
Dear Eldon, Mark, Sinclair & Family,
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May she soar with the angels!
Bob & Donna (Taber) Whitmer
Barb & Bub Lowry says
Eldon and family,
We are deeply saddened to learn of our friend, Dodie\’s, sudden passing. Our hearts go out to you, Eldon, and the boys during this difficult time. We will remember Dodie\’s warm smile and her caring concern for others. Dodie was so proud of her boys and grandchildren. Her face would light up when she talked about them. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family. May God give you peace and strength.
Marlene Chipperfield -McCubbin says
To all of the Shafer Family.
We have just returned to Germany from Saudi Arabia , We are shocked and sad to hear the news of the sudden passing of my cousin Dodie
Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on,and cherished memories never fade because a loved one has gone.Those we love can never be more than a thought apart.For as long as there is memory, they will live on in our hearts.
Dodie will be missed as she touched so many lives in her own special way.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
Marlene , Frank, Sally , Chipperfield -McCubbin. Germany
Mr Henry John Baker Chipperfield says
To the family of Dorothy Shafer.
We are so sad and shocked to hear of the passing of cousin Dodie.
There are no goodbyes for us, where ever you are , you will always be in our hearts.
You will be sadly missed,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family at this time.
From Cousin ,
Chipp and Evelyn,
John, Dawn, Karen and all of the family in Nottingham , England.
Lisa MacInnis says
My thoughts and prayers are going out to all of you. It is truly a sad and unexpected loss. Although it is unfortunate that I hadn\’t had the opportunity to see Dodie in the last several years, she will always hold a special place in my heart. Some of my best childhood memories are of the family, all together in PEI, camping out and having clam bakes on the beach. That is how I remember her, in the place that she loved so much.
Thinking of you all at this very difficult time.
Amalia Richey and Family says
Dear Shafer Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. She will be greatly missed by many. I have fond memories at PHS during lunchtime and being warmly greeted by her with a smile. She was one of the nicest ladies I have met and even though it\’s going to be 20 years since I graduated from PHS, I have never forgotten how nice she was to my brothers, sister and I.
Sincerely,
Amalia (Mendez) Richey
Janet says
Eldon and Family,
Gwen called to tell us of Dodie\’s passing. I was shocked. I will always remember her smile and the twinkle in her eye that seemed to be there so often. When Warren and I were newlyweds and a young married couple, we always looked up to Eldon and Dodie. They were true examples of \”Jesus with skin on.\” I know they were always very kind to Mom and Dad and for that I am grateful. You are in our thoughts and prayers and we will be so happy when we see her again in her heavenly home.
God bless you all,
Warren and Janet Vannest
Loganville, GA
Mary Lou Leavell Bernett, TJ and Steve Leavell says
Dear Eldon and Family,
We are so sorry to read about Dodie\’s death – I just now saw it online. Please know how much we loved her and your entire family – you were wonderful neighbors and friends for all those years on Ferndale.
Please take care and remember that TJ, Steve, and I are thinking of all of you everyday.
Pat Chipperfield- Hart says
How sad I was to hear the loss of our cousin Dodie.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you in this time of sorrow.
In the days ahead may you find some small comfort in your many Happy memories.
Patty Chipperfield- Hart
Susan Chipperfield- Sawyer
Janet Metsker Smith says
Dorothy\’s Family,
I remember Dorothy coming to PHS. A privilege to have her join the class of 1961.
We didn\’t stay close but would meet occassionally and she always had a smile; always a high school friend.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
1961 PHS Classmate
Janet Metsker Smith
Heather Johnson says
I am so very sorry to hear about Dodie\’s passing. She was such a great lady and will be truly missed. I first met her in high school and then got to know and appreciate her even more so when she & my mom became friends. Take care; your entire family is in our prayers. If you need anything, please let me know.
Sandra Skipp says
Love you Dodie…………From all the Kelver\’s
Joe and Carolyn (Long) Franco says
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Carol Smith Finkbiner (Connie\'s daughter) says
I am so saddened to learn of Dodie\’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Kay Bauer says
Dear Sinclair, Beryl and Charlie,
We are so sorry for the loss of your loved sister. You are in our thoughts and prayers at a sad and difficult time. We loved your mom and dad, too, when they were our neighbors on Louisa Street back in the 1960s.
Our son, Matt, was 3 when he made \”cookies\” and sold them in the neighborhood. Your sister and parents were so kind to him — they bought his \”cookies\” and told him he could just keep them. He was astonished at their generosity (and we loved them for their nurturing souls).
Dave and Kay (Murray) Bauer
Todd Jenkins says
Dodie, it was both an honor and a pleasure to be a part of your life and family and I always enjoyed our time together. May you rest in peace and watch over your wonderful family.
Todd Jenkins
East Lansing, Michigan
Donna Belstra says
I am so,so very sorry..I worked with Dodie for years–she was such a wonderful person–I lost my daughter 5 years ago; and she was such a strengh for me.She helped me so–She will always have a special place in my heart.
Angie Stevens says
Dear Shafer family,
Darren & I remember your motherly fondly. What a beautiful lady with a heart of gold.
We are so sorry for your unexpected loss and send you hugs and prayers to help you through this time.
God Bless,
Darren & Angie Stevens
Lopez Family says
Dear Shafer Family ~
We are so very sorry for your loss. Our continued thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Your mom was a very sweet and kind person, always had a smile.
Chris & Karen Lopez
Sara Keyser says
Todd,
You and your family are in my heart and prayers. I am so sorry for the loss your loss. Thinking of you yesterday, today and in the future.
Sara
Patti Finkbiner says
Our thoughts and prayers be with you. I have great memories of Mrs. Shafer, Her Mom and My Grandma Smith sitting down for a visit. Our God\’s Blessings be upon you of your time of need.
Jimmie and Patti (Finkbiner) Anderson
Connie Smith\’s Granddaughter.
Denise A. (Gorom) Schwaberow says
I have so many fond memories of Dodie. She always made me feel so welcomed in the Shafer home. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all. I can only hope the love she gave to you all will help you heal. And she did, love you all, so much!
Brenda Petry says
Dear Shafer family–
I was so surprised and saddened to hear this news. I have fond memories of Dodie, from growing up at the Plymouth church. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Peace, Brenda Petry
John Salter says
Eldon and family … we were shocked and saddened to learn of Dodie\’s sudden passing. We were hoping that you would be able to travel to PEI this summer for a holiday and to visit with family. Our thought and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
A memorial donation will be made in Dodie\’s name to the Plymouth High School \”Helping Students Fund\”.
John and Deborah Salter
Terry R. Greene says
Very sorry for your loss.
Dena McLochlin says
So sorry for your loss. Dodie was a sweet and precious lady. Praying for strength and comfort for your family during this difficult time.
The McLochlin Family
Carla Vautour says
Deepest Sympathies , you are in our prayers.
Sincerely Carla Vautour, Eloi Vautour and Nancy Tremblay. From New Brunswick.
Jean Thom says
SinClair (Sue) Mac Innis and family.
At this sad time of the lost of your sister our thoughts go out to you. Sincere
sympahty at this time and have a safe return back home.
,Sister-in-law Freda (Eloi) and Gisele.from Adamsville New-Brunswick
Sister-in-law Jean (Sid) and Mark from Trenton Ontario
Shirley Mercer says
For Sinclair, Sue McInnis, and family.
So sorry I couldn\’t be there for you at this most difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with you, please take care and God Bless.
Ella and Ugene says
Sinclair and Sue McInnis and family
So very sorry to hear about your sister, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time, with deepest condolences. Take care, God Bless
Gayle Sampson says
To Mark and Elaine and family,
My sympathy in the unexpected loss of your mother. I empathize in how that may be a stunner for you; yet a gratitude that your mother lived a full and engaged life. I appreciate the Holy Week …cup of tea in the tribute, believing that our Loved Ones remain active in being themselves, through the graciousness of our Lord. My mother Maxine also had English ancestry, loved her friends like the characters in Anne of Green Gables, and enjoyed our travels to south east Canada. Perhaps they will have a cup of tea while they wait a bit.
Here is a favorite verse from Emily Dickinson, originally shared with me at a time of loss:
This world
is not conclusion;
A sequel stands beyond,
Invisible, as music,
But positive,
as sound.
Love and Blessings, Gayle Sampson
Janice Combs says
My deepest sympathy for your family during this very difficult times. May God grace guide you all through this difficult time. Dodie is a wonderful woman and will be sorely missed by many. You all have a lifetime of wonderful memories – charish them and celebrate her life!
Dick Tobias says
I was so sorry to read about the passing of Dodie while I was out of the state. I had many fond memories of Dodie during our lunch discussions. She will always be remembered by her cheerfulness and serving the students at PHS. I feel very fortunate to have known her during my tenure as Principal. My heartful condolences to the family. Thank you for sharing her with Plymouth High School.
Dick Tobias
Principal. PHS
Derek and Jodi Eveland says
Shafer Family,
We are so sorry for your unexpected loss. Derek and I enjoyed talking with Dorothy in church. She was always pleasant and had a smile on her face. She will be greatly missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Derek and Jodi Eveland
Jodie Mercer says
To the Shafer and MacInnis families:
I\’m so sorry to hear of your great loss. My God be with all of you and help you through this difficult time with courage, strength, love and guidance.
-Jodie Mercer
(Niece of Susan and Sin MacInnis)
Karyn MacDonald says
Dear Eldon,
I was saddened to hear of Dodies\’ death. It had been so nice to meet the two of you at Bonnie & Mickeys\’ celebration here on Prince Edward Island. I too, believe in the Lord and although she is gone from us it is such a comfort to know that she is with Him now. Please know that we are saying prayers for your family at this difficult time.
Karyn MacDonald(Preston\’s daughter-in-law)
Shirley A. Gidley says
Oh Dodie. Sure miss that smiling face and all those great conversations that we have had over the years.
Your exuberance, positive attitude, and love for so many people and \”things\” inspired so many.
For her family, know that she was admired and loved by so many.
donna whitmer says
Dear Eldon, Mark, Sinclair & Family,
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. May she soar with the angels!
Bob & Donna (Taber) Whitmer
Barb & Bub Lowry says
Eldon and family,
We are deeply saddened to learn of our friend, Dodie\’s, sudden passing. Our hearts go out to you, Eldon, and the boys during this difficult time. We will remember Dodie\’s warm smile and her caring concern for others. Dodie was so proud of her boys and grandchildren. Her face would light up when she talked about them. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the family. May God give you peace and strength.
Marlene Chipperfield -McCubbin says
To all of the Shafer Family.
We have just returned to Germany from Saudi Arabia , We are shocked and sad to hear the news of the sudden passing of my cousin Dodie
Those we love remain with us for love itself lives on,and cherished memories never fade because a loved one has gone.Those we love can never be more than a thought apart.For as long as there is memory, they will live on in our hearts.
Dodie will be missed as she touched so many lives in her own special way.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
Marlene , Frank, Sally , Chipperfield -McCubbin. Germany
Mr Henry John Baker Chipperfield says
To the family of Dorothy Shafer.
We are so sad and shocked to hear of the passing of cousin Dodie.
There are no goodbyes for us, where ever you are , you will always be in our hearts.
You will be sadly missed,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family at this time.
From Cousin ,
Chipp and Evelyn,
John, Dawn, Karen and all of the family in Nottingham , England.
Lisa MacInnis says
My thoughts and prayers are going out to all of you. It is truly a sad and unexpected loss. Although it is unfortunate that I hadn\’t had the opportunity to see Dodie in the last several years, she will always hold a special place in my heart. Some of my best childhood memories are of the family, all together in PEI, camping out and having clam bakes on the beach. That is how I remember her, in the place that she loved so much.
Thinking of you all at this very difficult time.
Amalia Richey and Family says
Dear Shafer Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. She will be greatly missed by many. I have fond memories at PHS during lunchtime and being warmly greeted by her with a smile. She was one of the nicest ladies I have met and even though it\’s going to be 20 years since I graduated from PHS, I have never forgotten how nice she was to my brothers, sister and I.
Sincerely,
Amalia (Mendez) Richey
Janet says
Eldon and Family,
Gwen called to tell us of Dodie\’s passing. I was shocked. I will always remember her smile and the twinkle in her eye that seemed to be there so often. When Warren and I were newlyweds and a young married couple, we always looked up to Eldon and Dodie. They were true examples of \”Jesus with skin on.\” I know they were always very kind to Mom and Dad and for that I am grateful. You are in our thoughts and prayers and we will be so happy when we see her again in her heavenly home.
God bless you all,
Warren and Janet Vannest
Loganville, GA
Mary Lou Leavell Bernett, TJ and Steve Leavell says
Dear Eldon and Family,
We are so sorry to read about Dodie\’s death – I just now saw it online. Please know how much we loved her and your entire family – you were wonderful neighbors and friends for all those years on Ferndale.
Please take care and remember that TJ, Steve, and I are thinking of all of you everyday.
Pat Chipperfield- Hart says
How sad I was to hear the loss of our cousin Dodie.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you in this time of sorrow.
In the days ahead may you find some small comfort in your many Happy memories.
Patty Chipperfield- Hart
Susan Chipperfield- Sawyer