Wilma Dohn

Wilma Jean Dohn died on September 20, 2016 in Quartz Hill due to complications of Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 92. She was a native Californian having been born in her parents’ home on South Fir Street in Inglewood on August 31. 1924.

Her father, William Glenn Dorothy was born in Iowa. Her mother, Helen Dorthea Mahn was born In Nebraska. Her parents met while her father was working on the railroad and her mother was playing piano. After their marriage, they came out West settling in Inglewood, California. Jean’s paternal grandparents, Archibald Franklin Dorothy, and Wealthy (Smith) had previously arrived in 1920, and Archibald was active on the planning commission. After building several homes for himself and his two sons, Glenn and Joseph, Archibald gave up several acres of land for the expansion of Inglewood High School, where Jean and her sister June would attend. Jean worked for Vitachrome, riding the ‘red car’ to downtown Los Angeles for a few years, before the man she would marry moved in next door.

Jean met the love of her life, Ray Dohn, after his return from Marine Corp service in the South Pacific during WWII. Ray, a native of North Dakota, married his “California Girl” on April 11, 1947. Jean and Ray began their life together in Inglewood where all three of their children, Melvan, Melanie and Marlene were born. Jean enjoyed her life as mother and homemaker while Ray returned to working in the aircraft industry. Growing tired of city life, the family moved to Norco, California in 1962. In 1970, Ray’s aerospace work necessitated their last move to Quartz Hill. Ray and Jean retired in 1987 and enjoyed some travel and fishing. Among Jean’s favorite things were; her backyard, watering, feeding, and watching the birdies. Jean’s children are forever grateful for the unconditional love, support, and dedication that she and Ray provided their entire lives.
Jean was preceded in death by her sister and only sibling, June Boyle; her son Army SFC Melvan Dohn; and her loving husband of 62 years, Raymond Dohn.
She is survived by her daughter-in-law Ute Dohn of Guxhagen Germany, daughters; Melanie Dohn and her husband Jim Walker of Elizabeth Lake, California and Marlene Dohn of Florence, Oregon. Granddaughters, Michelle (John) Hilbrands of Temecula, California, and Anais (Brandon) Arteaga of North Hills, California. Great grandchildren, Julisa Dohn and Brandon Hilbrands both of Temecula, California and one more great grandchild of Anais and Brandon on the way in March 2017. Also, affectionately survived by numerous nieces and nephews and their families.

The family wants to thank the many great caregivers that assisted us with mom over the past few years. We especially want to thank Anita and her family for all the special care and support. A family and friends gathering will be held to honor both Ray and Jean in the Spring of 2017.