Dorothy Callies

She is survived by her beloved husband, Anthony Tony Callies. They were united in marriage on June 3, 1967. She passed two days before her 55th wedding anniversary. Dorothy was the youngest daughter of Daisy (Fornter) & Henry Hottinger. She has sisters and a brother still living in California. Dorothy’s parents owned Hottinger Frozen Meat Locker in Chino, CA.

Dorothy graduated from California Deaf School in Riverside, CA in 1956 and graduated from Central Bible Institute in 1964. After their marriage, they began Evangelistic ministry, performing dramas throughout the USA and in New Brunswick. They preached at Deaf Camps in Michigan, Wisconsin and Louisiana. During their prime this couple was in much demand.

In the 1970’s Dorothy felt a burden to pioneer Silent Christian super-8 films in ASL which lead to making “Seven Great Films”. In 2005 these films were converted into classic DVD’s. Tony & Dorothy pastored Deaf congregations in Peoria, Bloomington/Normal, Rockford, IL; Akron, Ohio and worked for many years at Deaf Video Communications (DVC) in Carol Stream, IL founded by David & Ruby Stecca. It was there at DVC that Tony & Dorothy created five verse-by-verse Bible Studies of Hebrews, Titus, Philemon, Jude and Romans.

Dorothy had a burden for one-on-one ministry in person, through VP or in person as opportunity arose. She established Deaf Prayer Partners under United Evangelical Churches, where she was an Ordained Minister in good standing.

Dorothy & Tony attended and assisted in the ministry at First Assembly of God Deaf Church in Normal, IL until their semi-retirement. They were called upon to speak at special events in different states and Canada. They both worked for a while at Taco Bell. Both enjoyed their quiet time in Bloomington, IL. Dorothy was caring for her husband but still active in Fresh Manna right up to the end. She had an unquenchable desire to minister the word of God.

It was Dorothy who turned worship songs into ASL. Both she & her husband became well known for their ASL duets. They paved the way in many ways for those coming after them. This is the song we remember them singing together.

What a day that will be

When my Jesus I shall see

When I look upon His face

The one who saved me by His grace

When He takes me by the hand

And leads me through the Promised Land

What a glorious day that will be!