"Mike Nielsen and all the Condo Hangar B owners. Our deepest sympathies to Dottie?s family and employees. Our annual meeting will not be the same without her guiding us through the process! We will always remember her. Rest In Peace."
In loving memory of
Dorothy M Bennett
July 19, 1943 - May 30, 2018
Dorothy M. Bennett, 74, of Punta Gorda, FL passed away May 30, 2018. She was born July 19, 1943 in Binghamton, New York to Zaytha and Cora Daniels and the family moved to Zephyrhills, Florida when she was a child. She moved to Punta Gorda in 1967 and was very involved within the community and had worked at various jobs before living out one of her dreams and starting her own business - G.F. Business Services.
She was an active member of the Punta Gorda Historical Society, Old Punta Gorda, Inc., ABWA, and enjoyed giving to others. She enjoyed the outdoors and she loved animals, especially horses.
She is survived by her children, Paul (Lisa Jo) Blanchard Jr and Michelle (Robert) Sutherland; grandchildren, Nichole Sutherland, Heath (Lauren) Sutherland and Eric (Bianca) Blanchard; great grandchildren, Lilah and Emmalyn Sutherland.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. till 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday June 12, 2018 at the Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home, 635 E Marion Ave, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 6:00 pm at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org
Tributes
"Michelle and Chip - I am so sorry to hear about your Mom's death and so sorry I was out of town and could not make the service. She was a wonderful, dynamic person with a heart as big as the outdoors. There has never been a more devoted Mother and she was so proud of you all. My prayers go with you. Paula McQueen"
"My friend...a sweet soul who will be missed by many. Rest in peace, Love & Prayers, Rita Summers "
"We have been together since thee 80's and you have helped me on more than one ocassion. I still treasure your friendship and your mentoring!! I miss you already!! Nancy Perkins"
"My relationship with Dottie was shorter than my relationship with Michelle & her family, but seldom have I ever met a woman that I admired more than Dottie. Her generosity, wit, warmness, & mental acuity are legendary! She made such an wonderful impression upon anyone blessed enough to make her acquaintance. For me it will be the day she came into her office after getting her diagnosis, putting her arms around me, and saying," I am so sorry that I brought you into this after what you went through with your husband." As always she was not thinking of herself, but of others. Thank you, Dottie for your understanding, love & friendship. You will be missed here, but you will forever be in our hearts. My love & prayers to all of Dottie's family. "
"We extend our sincere sympathy to alll of Dottie's family and to her business family at GF. We knew Dottie for at least the last 18 years through GF's business relationship with BridgePoint. Dottie was indeed special, always taking the time to greet us and find the time to talk despite being busy. Her caring about providing for a special Christmas for those less advantaged had us shopping for basketballs, toys, and treats, which we enjoyed doing. Her office was a wonderland in itself at Christmas, with such interesting decorations, making it so festive and welcoming. Her love of life included of course the love for her red car, always kept so spiffy. She will be missed indeed. May all her family members and friends take comfort in their many memories. God Bless you, Dottie. Elaine and Bob Byrne, BridgePoint Condominiums."
"My deepest sympathies go out to Michelle and Chip and all the family on the passing of Dottie. I hope time heals the loss and the wonderful memories make you smile. I just got the news today, and I am so sad. I spent half my childhood growing up at Dottie's house and riding horses. Many a great memory I will carry with me throughout the rest of my life, and I have Dottie and her family to thank. You will be missed Dottie! Until we meet again.... Leslie (Brandon) Ackerman"
"Our deep condolences to Dottie?s family on her passing. Dottie, you will always be remembered as more than our bookkeeper for over 20 years, but also as a friend & advisor. You will be missed......God speed!
Nancy & Fred Elliott "
"Dottie~ A friend brought us together for business purposes, but our love of serving others cemented our bond. You've taught me so much in business & of life! You always shared. From your homemade chicken & dumplings for lunch, to volunteering your time & money in the community, to donating to my church outreach ptojects and even taking care of folks in need at Christmas. Your journey here has ended but you will always live on in our hearts & in your legacy: G.F. Business Services. I am truly honored to be part of this team you created & promise to strive to make you proud. We are all heartbroken that you had to leave us. I pray that comforting Heavenly Arms hold all of your family tightly as they grieve the loss of one incredible woman... you. Love you... ~Mary"
"Our deepest sympathies to both of you, Chip & Michelle. Your love for your mother was evident to all who knew you. Our prayers are with each of you at this incredibly sad time. Greg & Carol Wade"
" So sorry Michelle and Chip to hear of your loss . Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family . Reyne Nusbaum Schrock"
"So sorry to hear of Dottie's passing. May the Lord comfort you in the days to come and lay a healing hand on your hearts. "
"So sorry for your family's loss. We were neighbor's of Dottie for many years. May God heal your heavy hearts."
"Chip & Michelle and to all of Dorothy's Family, Please accept our most sincere condolences from the entire Gibbs Family. I worked for Dottie at the OK Feed Store next to the Circle K on US 17 back when I was with the Punta Gorda Police Dept. This amazing wonderful lady not only took me under her wing for part-time work but became a great friend for the years to come. I knew in my heart she must have liked and trusted me when she would let Chip run the route to deliver cattle feed but later let me take this same young man on many hunting trips and eventually on ride alongs when I was On Duty. I was devastated when I learned of her illness because it wasn't long ago I stopped by her Office for a hug and reminisced about past times. Heaven has gained an Angel and I pray for the comfort for her entire Family. To Chip & Michelle may God touch you both in a special way to get through this most difficult time. Respectfully, Sam Gibbs FHP Retired."
"so sorry Nichole and family... My deepest sympathy goes out to you at this time.. Lynne"