Dorothy Barbara Schlabach

Dorothy Schlabach, 84 Dorothy Barbara Schlabach, 84, of Sarasota passed away December 9, 2016. Born December 2, 1932 in Shelbyville, IL was the daughter of Joseph and Sarah Hostetler. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Atlee A. Schlabach, and beloved children, daughter Joyce (Randy) Albritton of Sarasota, son Ricky Schlabach of Bradenton, son Jarey (Ruth) Schlabach of Lecanto and daughter Ronda (Steve) Rittenhouse of Harrisonburg, VA; six grandchildren Aaron (Brittany) Albritton, Cody Albritton, Julia and Catherine Schlabach, and Laura and Sarah Rittenhouse; two great-grandchildren Calahan and Campbell Albritton; four sisters Lois Bunch of Mystic, Iowa, Grace Fargher of Sterling, Illinois, Bertie Yoder of Sarasota, and Erma Sommers of Sarasota, as well as many nieces and nephews. Dorothy is preceded in death by her parents, brothers Joe and Everett Dean Hostetler, and sisters Mary Ethel Hostetler and Esther Jones. Dorothy spent her childhood in Illinois before she moved to Sarasota, where she met her husband and raised her four children in a godly home. Atlee and Dorothy were married on June 3, 1960 in Walnut Creek, Ohio. Dorothy was a home-maker and supported Atlee in his business as a General Contractor. Raised in a conservative Mennonite home, she completed her schooling up to the eighth grade. At the age of 50, with children still at home, she received her high school diploma and went on to get a CNA license. She was very pleased to have completed both of these accomplishments later in life. She enjoyed sewing, embroidering, games, thrift shopping, and spending time with her family. Through the many years of their marriage Dorothy and Atlee went on many different travels. Highlighted trips were to the Holy Lands, an Alaskan cruise, a two-month trip out west and many vacations spent in the Smokey Mountains, Illinois and Ohio. Dorothy also enjoyed the times she and Atlee would take rides on the motorcycle. Dorothy's sweet disposition was a quality many enjoyed. She had a spunky, fun and loving way about her. You could often find her welcoming others into her home. It was evident in her daily life that the Lord was her foundation. Her happiest times were when she spent time with her children and grandchildren. Dorothy took one day at time and lived each day to its fullest. In her later years, Dorothy had humor to help her overcome the health problems she and Atlee experienced. She made the best of life.