Dorothy Jane Lessard

Dorothy Jane Lessard was born to John and Mary Walker in Portland, Oregon on February the 21st in 1924. She was married to the love of her life Noel (Rocky) Lessard at age 16 and experienced this world at his side for more than 78 years until her passing on April the 10th of 2019. Dorothy  was the loving mother of three sons, Aaron Douglas, Stanley Dean and John Edward. As well, her daughter in laws Molly and Nancy were each a precious part of her world and happiness. She is survived by her loving sister Edna Melcher. In addition, she will be truly missed by several nieces and nephews.

Grandma Dorothy lived a life of joy, smiles, prayers and sharing of photos as she doted on her 8 Grandchildren, Michael, Jennifer, Matthew, Andrew, Anne-Marie, Laura, Katie and Kristin. And, in more recent years, Dorothy was blessed with 15 Great-Grandchildren who managed to fill the remaining availability of photo space located on her kitchen table and refrigerator, as well as the warm spaces within her heart.

As a wife, mother of three sons and a business woman, working for Pacific Northwest Bell, Dorothy Jane always found time for her spiritual life. Her morning devotions and prayers, reflecting on her love of God and her close walk with Jesus kept her balanced and strong through the best and most trying times of her 95 years. Her decisions were always made in prayer and both her advice and wisdom were always companioned by scripture. Dorothy's church home was the Evangelical Congregational Church located in Northeast Portland. It was the source of her activities and ties with friends and family.

Interests frequently found 'Dot' in the kitchen. With traditional German recipes her oven was a continuous source of savory aromas. Fresh Rye Bread 'Roggenbrot', Kraut Kuchen, Grebble and Rivel Kuchen insured that her adult children would frequently return to visit. Skilled in sewing and crocheting, special family gifts and practical garments were frequently crafted by Dorothy's creative hands. Sewing was both a source of pride and relaxation for her. Dorothy's green thumb was truly inspiring as she had the ability to turn the most delicate and exotic house plants into blooming wonders. As in all things, her abiding love and constant attention had wonderful results, whether they be in cooking, hobbies or her relationship with loved ones.
Dorothy's primary home for the past 64 years has been her Northeast Portland home built by her and Rocky in 1955. It was a source of pride, family memories and ties. She was able to reside there, in comfort, with her husband until recent months prior to her passing in April of 2019. We are so pleased that she now has an even more beautiful home as she resides with her sweet Jesus who she spoke of so lovingly and so frequently.

Dorothy Jane is Forever In Our Hearts.