Dorothy Anna Nicol

Born March 29, 1939, in Depew, New York, to Casimer and Helen Kobos, Dorothy was the middle of three daughters. While living in Buffalo, she was blessed with four sons who became the center of her life.

In 1977, Dorothy moved to Arizona, where she raised her boys and worked as a dedicated Deli Manager for Bashas’ for many years. It was there that she met John, who would become her beloved husband. Dorothy and John were married on October 6th, 1990, and this year they would have celebrated 35 years of love and devotion together. John brought new joy and life into Dorothy’s heart, along with his daughter, who became family.

Faith and family were always at the center of Dorothy’s life. Sundays were for church, and in the fall, football — especially cheering for her Buffalo Bills. She treasured time spent playing games with family, relaxing on the back porch, or enjoying quiet evenings watching TV with John.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her older sister; her sons, Edward, David, and John; and two grandsons, Daniel and Christopher. She is survived by her husband of 35 years, John; her sons, Kevin Gawel and Nick Gawel; her stepdaughter, Karrie Wermes; and her cherished grandchildren, Eric Gawel, Jonathan Gawel, Barrett Wermes, and Alexandra Wermes; her great-grandchildren, Jaidan, Brody, Anna Lee, Bentley, & C.J.; and a large extended family. She is also survived by her loving friends, including many from Apostles Lutheran and Bashas’. Among them, Tammy Cox stood out as a cherished friend of over 40 years, whose friendship brought great joy and comfort.

Dorothy lived her life with deep faith, love, and devotion. Her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her, and her legacy of kindness and strength will live on through her family.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23rd, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, 7924 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301. A memorial service celebrating Dorothy’s life will take place on Saturday, October 25th, at 10:00 a.m. at Apostles Lutheran Church, 7020 W. Cactus Road, Peoria, AZ 85381. Burial will follow at Resthaven Park Cemetery at approximately 11:30 a.m. (in the older/original portion of the cemetery, located east of 63rd Avenue and south of Northern Avenue). The cemetery’s main address is 6450 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85301. A private reception will follow the graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Arizona Humane Society or to Apostles Lutheran Church in Dorothy’s honor.