Rebecca Dorka

Rebecca Ann Dorka, 56, of Mansfield, died Sunday, July 2, 2006 at her home. Born May 14, 1950 in Shelby, she was the daughter of C. Eldon and Ruth Harris Griffeth. She retired as a teacher from Mansfield City Schools after 25 years of service and was the first Nationally Board Certified Teacher in Mansfield City Schools. Mrs. Dorka was the owner of a small online business called Cottage Garden Studios. She was a member of Berean Baptist Church where she was previously a Sunday school teacher. She served as the Ambassador for the American Cancer Society and was a Team Captain for Relay for Life from 2004 to 2006. An amazing cook, she published a cookbook this past year. She was also an avid quilter, amateur photographer, artist and gardener.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Dorka, Jr.; two daughters and son-in-law, Abigail and Jeffery Eldridge of Shelby, and Amy Metzger and Preston Waller of Columbus; two grandchildren, Zachary Tyler and Jacob Roger Eldridge; her beloved cat, 'Pooch'; parents, C. Eldon and Ruth Harris Griffeth; sister and brother-in-law, Penny Jo and Dr. Douglas Peters of Blanchester; and nieces and nephews, Sara Tris Crisp and their son, Sean Tris, William Becky Peters and their son, Liam Peters. She was preceded in death by one brother, Anthony Griffeth, and nephew, Christopher Douglas Peters.

Friends may call from 1 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 7, 2006 at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors. As a celebration to Mrs. Dorka's life, the family requests that no one wear the traditional color black. Private graveside services will be held at a later date in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Richland County Relay for Life, or the Alzheimer's Association.