Dorothy Juella Melby Brinkman, 79

Dorothy Juella Melby Brinkman (79) passed away on March 27, 2013 at the Roseau Manor. Dorothy was born on September 22, 1933 in Greenbush, MN to Melvin and Ellen Melby.

Dorothy grew up in rural Greenbush. She graduated from Greenbush High School in 1952.  After high school, she attended teacher training in Thief River Falls and received a certificate to teach elementary education.  She taught many different elementary grades in various schools throughout her lifetime including Swift, Wannaska and the Roseau Christian School where she served as principal for several years.

She was married to Robert Brinkman on June 15, 1956 in Oiland Church, Badger. They were happily married for almost 57 years. Dorothy faithfully served in various volunteer capacities in the community:  4-H leader, Sunday School teacher, Youth Leader, various women’s organizations such as Christian Women’s Club and WCTU. She enjoyed music, crafts, gardening and entertaining friends and family. She was a generous and kind friend with a strong faith.

Dorothy is survived by her husband, Robert of Roseau; daughter, Mary (Steve) Hoffer of Plymouth, MN and Beth (Jack) Frangipane of Minneapolis.  She is also survived by her six grandchildren; Paul, Maribeth, Kari and Eric Hoffer and

Vincent and Robert Frangipane. Also surviving her are her sister, Muriel Brenhaug, Sartell, MN and brothers, Harlan (Wyoming, MN) and Gale (Winger, MN) Melby and several nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Thoralf and Edward Melby.

A funeral service will be held at the Roseau Covenant Church on Saturday, March 30 at 10:00 a.m. Visitation will be Friday evening from 5:00 – 7:00 at the Helgeson Funeral Chapel in Roseau followed by a service for the family at 7:00.