Dorothy "Dottie" Myers' Obituary
Dorothy Myers, age 83, of Grand Haven was taken to heaven by her Savior on July 11th, 2008. She was the only daughter born to Hamayag and Satenig Mahlebashian in 1924 in Grand Rapids, MI. After graduating from Union High (1944), she contributed to the war effort by working in a munitions factory. While visiting Grand Haven (her favorite vacation spot) she met Carroll Myers, who was stationed in the USCG, and later married him in 1946. After settling in town, Dorothy worked for Michigan Plastics.
Dottie helped her folks in their popcorn/refreshment business starting in her teen years, traveling to state fairs, carnivals, and sporting events. After her marriage to Carroll, the business continued, this time with her husband building their own trailer and setting up a spot by the train depot in Grand Haven. The location was soon moved to the corner of First and Washington where a small building was erected and named the “Corn Crib” in 1947. The shop was rebuilt in 1970 and renamed “The Crib.” This is why Dottie was later affectionately referred to as “the Popcorn Lady” or sometimes “the Crib Lady”.
Dorothy was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, where she was involved in the Girls’ Friendly Society, did volunteer work, and sang for over 60 years in the St. Celia’s Choir. Singing was always a passion in her life, from high school performances on stage to singing with the Sweet Adeline’s. Expressing herself in song brought her joy.
Prior to the development of MS, Dottie was an avid jogger (once achieving an award for jogging 800 miles in one year) and an active member of the YMCA.
She also took great pride in her Armenian heritage, often stating that the Armenians were the first people to adopt Christianity as their formal religion in 350AD.
Dorothy had a determined, indomitable spirit. This was most evident in the way she endured, without complaining, for so many years with such debilitating diseases. She was and is an inspiration to many to not give up the fight for life.
In recent years her greatest past-time activity was working with jigsaw puzzles, as well as enjoying the simple pleasures of a beautiful home and family visits.
Dorothy is survived by her brother, Roger Mahlebashian of Detroit; her daughter Robin and son Kevin (both of Grand Haven); 5 granddaughters: Rose (Jake) True, Katie Cameron, Julie (Scott) Guilford, Ilia Cameron, and Deborah Cameron; as well as 5 great-grandchildren: Gabryella and Christian, Riley, Ellasandra and Cameron. She was preceded in death by her parents, two older brothers and her former husband.
A memorial service will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church (524 Washington) on Thursday, the 17th of July, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. John Laycock presiding. Reception to follow in the church fellowship hall. Donations can be made to the Dottie Myers Memorial Music Fund at St. John’s. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.vbkfuneralhome.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Dorothy "Dottie"?
What’s a lesson you learned from Dorothy "Dottie"?
Share a story where Dorothy "Dottie"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Dorothy "Dottie" you’ll never forget.
How did Dorothy "Dottie" make you smile?