Dorothy Mae (Taylor) Gerken

Dorothy Mae (Taylor) Gerken, 90, was interested. She was curious. She liked to be in the know. Circumstances taught her early that life is precious. She taught us to stay humble, be disciplined and organized. She encouraged us to pursue opportunities.

She was meticulous, smart, strong-willed and progressive. She asked questions and shared opinions. She had a terrific eye for fashion and was always ‘put together’ from head to toe.

Dorothy was born in 1925 in her grandfather’s house on a farm near Lincoln, MO to Myral & Goldie (Means) Taylor. She was a proud member of DAR and her family lineage can be traced back to six U.S. presidents. She and her siblings Louise, Faye and Don were childhood playmates, lifelong confidants and supporters of each other. She graduated from Lincoln High School and Central Business College in Kansas City. Because she felt there was always more to learn, she took classes at Avila College and Longview Community College well into her 70s.

Dorothy and her husband Elmer celebrated their 72nd wedding anniversary in 2016. They enjoyed playing cards, square dancing and traveling around the world. They loved to host friends and family and making people feel welcome. With the exception of military travel in World War II, the Kansas City area has been their home.

Dorothy became one of the first associates of Marion Labs in 1966. She served in multiple roles, including being administrative assistant to the Chief Operating Officer, who became a close friend and mentor. She retired in 1990.

The many stories from her life will keep her present in ours.

Survivors include husband Elmer, two sisters, Louise Harms & Faye Clevenger, son Michael & wife Debra Gerken, daughter Claudia & husband Clifford Payton. Five grandchildren: Eric Gerken, Gina Gerken Crawford & husband Kevin, Jason Gerken, Matthew Payton & wife Nicole, Tara Payton Stigall & husband Noah. Four great-grandchildren: Luke, Max, Fiona, & Truman.

Visitation is from 5-7:00 PM followed by a Celebration of Life service beginning at 7:00, on Thursday, August 4 at the McGilley State Line Chapel, 12301 State Line Rd., KC, MO 64145. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice House 1500 Meadow Lake Parkway, Suite 200, KC, MO 64114. Please offer condolences and share memories online at www.mcgilleystatelinechapel.com. Arr.:McGilley State Line (816) 942-6180