Dolores May Keliher-Cooley was born in Portland, Oregon, on July 19, 1929, to Earl and Lydia Keliher. She is survived by her two children, Denise of Colton, Oregon, and Bruce of Portland, Oregon. She is also survived by her seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and her sister Janis Berry. Dolores was predeceased by her loving husband in 2012.
Dolores attended James John, Sitton School and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1947, where she made many friends, some that would last a lifetime. Her high school friends would write these qualities about her upon her graduation; Swell gal, one of the nicest girls I've ever known, good looking girl, wonderful gal, one of the best, good friend, darn swell kid, your just like a picnic, not a personality in all Roosevelt that can top yours, wonderful personality, keen gal. Mom was all these things.
After graduation, Mom attended the Comptometer School in Portland. In 1948 She married Art Peterson, and they had one son, Craig. Their marriage did not last, and in 1960 Mom met the love of her life and married Russell Cooley Jr. in 1961. Denise was born soon after in 1962 while they were living in St Johns. They moved to Milwaukie, Oregon, in 1963 and along came Bruce who was born in 1964.
Tragically her son Craig, only nine years old at the time, was hit and killed while riding his bike in August of 1964.It was then that Mom and Dad started attending St Paul's United Methodist Church in Milwaukie. They would spend the rest of their lives attending and being a part of this congregation, making friendships that would last decades.
Mom was a nurturing, loving, kind, and caring homemaker. Together Mom and Dad loved dancing with their friends at various get-togethers. She loved playing bridge with her friends, cribbage, knitting, her roses, reading, camping, collecting rocks, and traveling the U.S. with Dad. She regularly volunteered at the Senior Center, preparing food for the Meals on Wheels program and serving the seniors. She was one of the longest-serving volunteers at 35-plus years.
She was active in church activities like Vacation Bible School, potlucks, skit nights (she was in many skits), United Methodist Women, Prayers and Squares, Church Usher, and backpack buddies. After Dad passed, she enjoyed Lunch Bunch and the monthly lunches with her girl friends whom she adored.
Sadly Mom had to give up all the activities she loved as her dementia gradually took over. As Mom's memory faded and the faces she knew and loved became forgotten, she left behind beautiful memories. She loved being around her great granddaughter, whom she often saw and always had a ready smile.
Mom passed away in our home quietly and peacefully in her sleep on the afternoon of May 5. We will always carry your memory in our hearts, Mom!
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