Mrs. Dorothy "Dot" Frances Ohlberg Wilkening

Don’t believe what you are reading in this newspaper--- that I am dead. I am more alive than ever before. I am now in my real home with Jesus, my Savior. If you want to shed tears, make them tears of joy, for I am rejoicing in heaven.

This past Saturday, Dec. 4th, 2010, concluded a journey of 86 years. I leave behind my loving Christian husband of 64 years, Harvey, along with five healthy children, fourteen beautiful grandchildren, and seven precious great-granddaughters. As I have reached the end of my life here on earth, I reflect on my five children and their families: Marcia and George Earhart, David, Rachel and Jason Brock, John and DeDee Earhart; Gayle and Rick Poland, Bryan, Amanda, and Scott; Joyce and Jay Jackson, Sara, Kyle, and Bret; Nancy and Paul Clark, Ben and Nancy Clark, David and Katie Clark; and Paul and BethAnne Wilkening, William and Molly.

Born Nov. 25, 1924 in Cicero, Illinois, I attended Redeemer Lutheran Grammar School, where Harvey and I met. We were married Aug. 31, 1946, upon Harvey’s completion of his military service. We remained in Cicero until Harvey was transferred to Indianapolis, where we lived seven years, before moving to Buffalo, New York. In 1965 the family moved to Shreveport, where Harv and I resided since. In each location I had the opportunity to serve the Lord by teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, by serving in the Women’s Guilds, and by engaging in the prayer ministry. The church, especially Our Savior Lutheran, Shreveport, has been the center of my life. It is through the church that I have met wonderful life-long friends. I am thankful for each of you and have been very blessed by your friendship.

I want to say special thanks to Dr. Patel and my caretakers at the Bradford House.

My celebration of life service will be at Centuries Memorial Funeral Chapel, Dec. 7, 2010, at 2pm. Please make memorial contributions to the charity of your choice.

Visitation will be from 4pm to 7pm this evening at Centuries Memorial Funeral Chapel on Mansfield Road.

Arrangements under the direction of Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport, LA.