Obituary of Dorothy Parnell

Dorothy Frances (Morgridge) Parnell February 16, 1913 March 2, 2008 Dorothy Frances Parnell, 95, of Birch Lake View Drive in Vandalia, passed away at her home on Sunday, March 2, 2008 with her family by her side. Dorothy was born in Cassopolis, MI on February 16, 1913 to the late William and Carrie (Montgomery) Mordgidge. After graduating from Niles High School, Dorothy went on to attend Western Michigan University where she received her Masters Degree in Music with a Minor in English. On June 27th of 1942 Dorothy wed the love of her life, John Parnell Sr. at a beautiful ceremony in Niles. In her free time Dorothy loved spending time at Birch Lake and being in the outdoors. She spent much of her time gardening, bird watching, rock collecting, studying entomology and photography. Being a leader for the local 4-H and Girl and Boy Scouts was also on her agenda since she had 4 children. Dorothy was also a past member of the Garden Club and the YSDS. She was very active in the community and, with John, enjoyed throwing get-togethers for her friends. She was also a very active member of the Wesley United Methodist Church of Niles where she played the organ for over 25 years. She is preceded in death by her parents, Husband John Parnell Sr. in 1996, sister Louise (Sid) Skellenger and aunt Frankie (Harry) Hoover. Dorothy is survived by her children Jeanne Marable of Phoenix, AZ, John Parnell Jr. of Cincinnati, OH, Richard "Dick" Parnell of Stow, OH and Kathy (Ron) Niezgodski of South Bend, IN, 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. A time of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2008 at Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Niles from 10 am-12 pm with her funeral following at Noon. Pastor Emmett Kadwell will be officiating. Dorothy will be interred at Silverbrook Cemetery, also in Niles. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles.