Dorothy Ann Jacobson

Dorothy Ann (Metcalf) Jacobson, of White Lake MI, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2026, at age 97. She was predeceased by her loving husband of 78 years, Kenneth Wayne Jacobson, who passed in June 2025. She is survived by four sons: Robert of Oak Park, MI; Mark (partner Dave Bobrow) of San Diego CA, Ken Jr. (wife Shelley) of Sylvan Lake, and Jon of Ann Arbor. She was also predeceased by three cherished sons, David, Luke and Matthew. Although Dorothy had no daughters, she was fortunate to have two wonderful daughters-in-law—Shelley & Karen — who offered much love, care and support. Dorothy was delighted to spend quality time with her loving grandchildren: Joel Jacobson (wife Amy) of Denver CO, Alyssa Silvester (husband Nick) of Hoover AL, Hannah Jacobson (partner Jade Jones) of Queens, NY, Erica Jacobson of Los Alamos NM, and Marie Jacobson of Detroit MI. She was also fortunate in welcoming four great-grandchildren during her lifetime—Owen & Henry (Joel/Amy) and Ethan & Anne (Alyssa/Nick). She is also remembered by numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Dorothy was born in Detroit, MI on 7/27/28 to Ethyl and Chester Metcalf and was raised in a household with five sisters (Donna, Phyllis, Jean, Mary and Virginia) and two brothers (Richard and Chet Jr.) After graduating from high school, Dorothy worked as a secretary at R.L. Polk and soon met the love of her life, Kenneth. After his service in the Navy during WW II, they were married in 1947 and created a loving and successful partnership. After starting their family in Redford, MI, they built a beautiful home in White Lake, MI where they resided for more than 50 years. Ken & Dorothy also enjoyed their vacations in Harrison MI and Fort Myers Beach FL. They recently relocated to the Gilbert Residence, a senior care facility in Ypsilanti MI.

Dorothy was an energetic, hard-working, and independent woman who worked tirelessly caring for her husband, their children and their home. After devoting so much time and energy to raising a family and helping her husband to build his business, she was very excited to be able to devote more time, attention and affection to her grandchildren, with whom she had very special bonds.

Her son Ken Jr. recalled, ‘Amongst the many memories, what stands out is a loving, protective, supportive mother. A nervous kindergartner and first time Sunday schooler, I took comfort in seeing her as she reassuringly peered in through the windows at me. During elementary school, she faithfully waited for me on the front porch each day as I walked home for lunch. Throughout school and beyond mom was continually engaged, encouraging and celebrated every milestone. While dating my girlfriend Shelley, she chided “Don’t let this one get away!”. Mom and Dad shared an exemplary, devoted marriage where they were “Dance Partners for Life”. The quintessential matriarch, she treasured her family, glowed with her grandchildren, and continually gathered everyone together.’

Dorothy’s later years proved to be an exceptional time in her life as she began to explore more of her creative abilities while in her 70’s and 80’s. Beginning with ceramics and pottery, she moved on to scrapbooking, collage-work, and eventually constructed amazingly intricate dollhouses for her granddaughters. Her artistic abilities continued to blossom as she began drawing and painting, creating amazingly beautiful works of art. Although her independence and activities were somewhat limited by health problems in her last 10 years, she still had her loving husband by her side who offered care and companionship in her final years. While Dorothy endured the loss of her sons and siblings over the course of her long life, it is a testament to her faith and perseverance that she was able to emerge as a stronger and more resilient person, maintaining the drive, tenacity and energy that was such an integral part of her character. We are grateful to think of her now as being able to re-join her beloved husband again. She will always remain in our memories and in our hearts.

We would like to acknowledge the comprehensive and compassionate care provided by the staff at the Gilbert Residence where Dorothy still resides. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to this assisted living facility in her memory at: https://www.gilbertresidence.com .