Dorothy Kraekemier 1942-2024

Dorothy, Dottie, Misty or Mrs. K. Kraekemier, 81 of Williamstown Vermont, formally from East Hartland Connecticut and Live Oak Florida transitioned to peace and freedom on August 22nd 2024 in the comfort and care of her daughter and the devoted compassionate staff at the McClure Miller Respite House.

Dottie, the youngest and only daughter of a crew of three siblings, was born to Barclay and Jeanie Craigie, February 16, 1943, in Winsted CT. She was a first generation American of Scottish immigrants. After graduating high school, Dottie worked as a telephone operator for Southern New England Telephone, a job that came with lots of adventures and funny stories. On June 30th, 1963, Dottie married the love of her life Robert (Bob) Kraekemier. They made their home in various parts of Connecticut before settling in East Hartland where Dottie and Bob thrived on raising their family. Dottie loved people and her community and took joy in her role of leading her daughters Brownie and Girl Scout troops and her local Women's Club. When time was a bit more flexible, Dottie owned her own Wall Papering business, something that gave her great pride in delving into her creative side. Ultimately, family was most important and the fact that she could have the time and enjoy her people and home was invaluable. Becoming empty nesters, Bob and Dottie found their way down south before Bob was forced to retire due to declining health.

If you knew Dottie at any point in her life, you would remember her amazing cooking or hosting of a good party; her endless hugs, smiles and a kind word; her unique, creative artistic abilities that were beautifully and thoughtfully her creations made out of love to those she showered them with; the love of cardinals, roosters, all her animals which included her dogs, horses, rabbits, birds, cats and fish that she loved throughout her lifetime, and the beach. She could name any outdoor flower she saw and even when cooking and being creative became difficult, she loved watching an array of cooking and crafting shows that supplemented the pleasure she used to take part in. In her later years living with her community at the Gardens at Williamstown, activities such as Bingo, Hand and Foot, or touring Vermont with her daughter and friends were very pleasurable. She loved Vermont and marveled at the beautiful landscape and the kindness of people here.

Dottie is survived by her daughter Donna (Todd) Emery of Middlesex Vermont, her beautiful Granddaughters Karla (Jamie) Lyon of Chelsea Vermont, Lizzie (Jon Tremblay) Emery of Orange Vermont, her precious Great Grand Children Sylas Braman and Beckett Tremblay, her cherished Kitty companion Lulu and numerous friends near and far. She is predeceased by her parents Barclay & Jeanie Craigie, her older brothers William & Charles Craigie, her beloved husband of 39 years Robert Kraekemier, and many special beautiful friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Old Orchard Beach Maine with family and at the Gardens in Williamstown with her beautiful community. In memory of Dottie, a donation to the following establishments that supported her in her journey would be greatly appreciated. McClure Miller Respite House (UVM Health Network – Home Health & Hospice, Attn: Development Office 1110 Prim Road, Colchester VT 05446 or on line at https://www.uvmhomehealth.org/donate/make-an-online-donation/) Central Home Health and Hospice (600 Granger Road, Barre VT 05641), or any organization that supports seniors in the process of navigating their care and well-being.

Deep appreciation and love are extended to the doctors, nurses and staff at the McClure Miller Respite House, Central Vermont Hospital, and Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice. The compassion, dignity, support and care that Dottie received was such a gift that made her feel seen, valued and fully supported. There are no words – except Thank You for what you do!!:)