Doralee "Dolly" J (Wilkins) Heldt

Born on February 6, 1939, in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, she lived her life in the beautiful state until she moved to Arizona in 1972. Dolly was raised in the close-knit farming community of Clifford, Michigan, where she attended school grades 1-8. She graduated from Marlette High School in 1957. Dolly cherished the friendships she formed there, maintaining contact with many classmates throughout her life.

A gifted pianist, Dolly studied piano for many years, and after graduation, she continued her studies at a music conservatory in Minnesota. She was a beautiful pianist and played often, preferring the quiet joy of music in private rather than performing for others.

Her first home in Arizona was custom-built to her satisfaction. It was a small two-bedroom that had stunning views of Mount Lemon and the Santa Catalina Mountains. During this time, Dolly worked at the University of Arizona as the co-editor of the internationally distributed Nuclear Technology Magazine.

She met the love of her life, Carl Heldt, a Professor Emeritus of Art at the U of A.

Carl and Dolly were married on December 23, 1989, in a beautiful ceremony and soon after built a home together in the foothills of the Tucson Mountains with breathtaking panoramic views.

Dolly was an avid quilter and made award-winning beautiful quilts that reflected her creativity and craft.

Dolly and Carl had an active social life. Dolly enjoyed the company of their many friends from church, relatives, and neighbors. In particular, her dearest friend, Judy Hughes, and her husband, Morris. Dolly especially loved visits from her family members in Michigan, which brought her great joy. She and Carl made many trips together to Michigan to visit family.

Dolly is survived by her brother, Dale (Joyce) Wilkins, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Also, two stepsons; Aaron (Lisa) and Tim (Sherry), and Anna, her cherished granddaughter.

Dolly was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carl, her parents; George and Violet (Wigle) Wilkins, two brothers; David and Daniel, three sisters; Donna, Dorothy, and Dianne.

Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.