Dorothy Ann Markes

Dorothy A. (Zak) Markes passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, at her home in Groton, MA. Throughout her life, Dottie maintained her love of family and friends, her generous spirit, her sense of humor, and her gratitude for a life filled with many adventures.

Born on July 11, 1929, in Depew, NY to Leon and Lottie Zak, Dottie was the youngest daughter with 4 older brothers. She graduated from high school at age 16 and attended Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1950, Dottie worked as a bacteriologist at Children’s Hospital and the Red Cross Blood Center in Buffalo, NY. Dottie met the love of her life, Bob, at a big band dance at St. John Kanty, a local Catholic parish. They were married at St. Peter & Paul in Depew, NY on April 24, 1954. Their Catholic faith was the cornerstone of their marriage for 67 years.

When Bob accepted his first job with GE, they moved to N.Syracuse, NY and started a family. As a mother of four children, Dottie excelled at managing a hectic family life while also volunteering at school, church, and a local hospital. She returned to work in 1976 as a lab tech at St. Joseph’s Hospital. When Bob’s job assignment brought them to New Jersey in 1985, Dottie became an avid golfer. It was an activity that she and Bob enjoyed in their retirement in Naples, FL, where they resided for 27 years. As a Naples resident, Dottie was a member at Vineyards and Vasari Country Clubs as well as Naples Newcomers and Sea Stars. Dottie loved to travel, whether it be family vacations, business trips with Bob, or European trips and cruises. She especially enjoyed summer travels to New England where she and Bob spent time with friends, family, and their 3 grandchildren.

Dottie was a classy lady who dressed in style. She had a keen decorating sense and a passion for creating a beautiful home. She loved shopping, flower arranging, and setting an artistic table even if it was just dinner for two.

Dottie was an excellent cook: she delighted in hosting gatherings and baking treats for neighbors or acquaintances as a gesture of kindness. She was proud to be a lifelong volunteer and always loved helping others. She relished her daily walks; playing bridge, Yahtzee, and bingo; and trips to the casino. Dottie’s smile, laugh, enthusiasm, and zest for life will be remembered by all who knew her.

Surviving are her daughters Susan (Scott) Jensen of Columbus, OH; Elizabeth Markes of Hamden, CT; and Catherine (Scot) Stewart of Westford, MA; grandchildren Stephen(Kay) Jensen of Oak Park, IL; Lauren (Daniel) Weaver of Columbus, OH; and Daniel Stewart of Westford, MA; great-grandchildren Nell Jensen and Nolan Weaver; sister-in-law Jacky Nawrocki of Charleston, NC; and many nieces and nephews. Dottie was predeceased by her loving husband, Bob; her son, Gregory; and her brothers Stanley, Casimir, Henry, and William. The family wishes to gratefully acknowledge the devoted,personal, and professional care that she received from Terracina Grand, Ascend Hospice, and the entire staff at River Court Residences.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on November 3, 2025, at 10 AM at St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church, 107 N Main St, Westford, MA, with private interment at Naples Memorial Gardens, Naples, FL at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Laces of Love, providing shoes to children in need in South Florida. https://lacesoflove.org