Dorothy M. (Shaffer) Volenec

Dorothy Mae Volenec, a loving mother and wife, passed away on December 11, 2023, at the age of 93. She was born on March 18, 1930, in Middleton, Wisconsin, the daughter of Edward and Anna (Frisch) Shaffer. After graduating from Middleton High School, she embraced a new chapter when she exchanged vows with the love of her life, Dean Volenec, on October 7, 1950. Together, Dorothy and Dean established a warm and nurturing home in Ellsworth, Wisconsin, where they raised their three sons, Dave, Dan, and Doug. Dorothy devoted herself wholeheartedly to the role of a dedicated homemaker, nurturing her family and creating a tidy haven of love and warmth. She often supported her husband, assisting him as his unofficial secretary while he worked as a conservation officer for Pierce County.

Through the years, Dorothy and Dean enjoyed spending time at their camper near Cumberland, Wisconsin as well as making cherished memories during their travels, including traversing along the Lewis and Clark Trail. In retirement, they spent their winters in the Florida Gulf. She had been an active member of St. Francis Catholic Church and after moving to Red Wing, became active at the Church of St. Joseph. She had been a talented pianist in her younger years and was remarkable at rosemaling.

She is survived by 3 sons, David Volenec, Daniel (Marlene) Volenec, Douglas (Joanne) Volenec; 4 grandchildren, Aaron, Matthew, Lauren and Devon Volenec. She was preceded in death by an infant son, Dwight; her husband Dean in 2001 and a brother, Earl Shaffer in 1977.

Mass of the Resurrection will be 11 a.m. Thursday, December 21, 2023, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Red Wing. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Red Wing.  Arrangements handled by Mahn Family Funeral Home Bodelson-Mahn Chapel. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com.