Dorothy Sue Fondriest

On August 14, 2024, the world bid farewell to Dorothy Sue Fondriest, age 88, a beloved woman who touched the lives of many with her kindness and compassion. She passed away peacefully at Park Village Nursing Home in Dover, where her family had surrounded her in her final moments.

Dorothy, affectionately known as Sue, was born on October 20, 1935, in Dover, Ohio. She was the daughter of the late John and Emma (Archinal) Judy. She was a proud alumna of Dover High School, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with learning and growth.

On November 26, 1955, she married the love of her life, Ronald Fondriest, who preceded her in death on September 18, 2023. She was also preceded in death by her siblings; Robert (Lois) Judy, Jim (Marijane) Judy, Jane (Robert) Augsburger, and Ken (Donna) Judy. 

She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dover. Among Sue's proudest accomplishments was her role as a foster parent alongside her husband, Ron. Together, they opened their hearts and home to over 250 children, providing love, support, and guidance to those in need. Their dedication to nurturing young lives left an indelible mark on the community and inspired all who knew them.

Sue will be remembered not only for her selflessness and generosity but also for the warmth and grace with which she carried herself. Her unwavering dedication to her family and the children she cared for exemplified the true meaning of unconditional love.

In her passing, Sue leaves behind cherished memories that will forever be held dear by her surviving family members, including her children; Julie (Ron) Flickinger of Arizona, Ronald (Jill Yuen) Fondriest of New Philadelphia, Robert (Jennifer) Fondriest of Granville, Richard (Pam) Fondriest of North Carolina, Rodney (Dianna) Fondriest of Strasburg, and Judith (Jason) Abrecht of New Philadelphia; 20 beloved grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren; along with her sister, Karen Dapoz of Pennsylvania. 

Sue’s family would like to express their appreciation for the incredible care she received from Ohio’s Hospice and the Park Village Health Care Center staff in Dover. 

Cremation has been entrusted to the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory in Dover. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dover on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. with Father Jimmy Hatfield officiating. Her family will receive guests from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Calvary Cemetery in Dover. A meal will be served at St. Joseph's Family Life Center following the committal service.  

Memorial contributions can be made to Ohio’s Hospice Truman House, 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.