Dolores Mary (Jacobsen) Florian, 94, was surrounded by her family as she was called home by the Lord December 9, 2012.
Dolores was born June 7, 1918, in Nevada, Iowa to Christensen and Eva (Ratcliff) Jacobsen. She was the oldest of four daughters, RobAnnetta Bergerson, LuErna and LeNora Jacobsen. On September 9, 1936, she married Frank Xavier Florian in Idaho Springs, Colo. They moved to Wyoming, then to South Dakota around 1947 where they raised their 10 children, Ruth Zervas, Jim (Bev), David (Suzanne), Alvin Al (Jeannie), Benjamin (Gail), Mary (George) Spontak, Martha (Rick), Betty Wilchek, Margaret (Brian) Ricard, and Robert. In 1970 she moved to Southern Oregon and remained here in the Valley.
Dolores had many jobs, but the one she felt most rewarding was working at Rogue Valley Medical Center as a foster grandparent in the pediatric ward where she rocked and cuddled babies for 21 years, retiring at the age of 85. One of her favorite pasttimes was to ride the city bus. She knew every route and was a friend to most every driver.
She is survived by all 10 of her children; 25 grandchildren; 47 great-grandchildren, and 27 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank (1968); and her sisters, RobAnnetta (1982) and LeNora (2007). Her strength and independence showed through all the way to the end. Her love and legacy will forever remain a part of us.
Services for Dolores will be held Thursday, December 13, 2012, at 10:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Medford. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to Rogue Valley Memorial Pediatric Department.
Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary, Medford, Oregon are in care of arrangements.
www.hillcrestmortuary.com