the Tops chapter best weight loser and in 1982, she was crowned queen for central Iowa; she maintained that weight goal for many years. In her young woman adult years, she was employed at the Hampton Café in Hampton and the Geneva Home Café, which was owned by Jack and Lula Stackhouse, who became second parents to her with much love. During the 1960's era, she was employed at Woodley's Café in Ackley, and in the early 1970's era, she was employed at the Tip Top Drive-In and Big Chief, which was owned by Marvin and Jean Walters, who were not only her employers but were also good friends. As Haley Kramer was growing up, Dorothy took care of her and was known as Grandma Dorothy. During the mid 1970's, she worked at the Ackley Canning Factory, and from 1977 to May 1, 1990, she was employed at Dodger Manufacturing in Eldora. Dorothy enjoyed her retirement visiting Darwin and family as much as possible. She also enjoyed traveling with Luella on their annual mystery trip each September, where there would be quite a surprise waiting for her. She would also go on bus travel trips and on day trips with family and friends. Dorothy is survived by her son, Darwin and friend Lale Wehling of Independence and two grandchildren Michael and Marina of Independence; daughter, Luella and husband Dan Rodemeyer of Hampton; and brother Arnold Knipfel of Ackley. She is also survived by honorary daughters Jessica Allbee and Terri Owen and honorary granddaughter Haley Kramer. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents William and Ella, husband Marvin, brothers Harley, Merle, Earl and Raymond Knipfel and sisters Florence Harms and Mabel Meyer.