Dorothy E. Salwolke

Dorothy E. (née Richards) Salwolke was a beloved mother, wife, aunt Dot, and grandmother during her incredible 93 years of life. She passed away with grace and dignity on July 19, 2023. Dorothy was born in Shell Lake, WI on March 18, 1930, the daughter of the late Orie and Ellen (née Ryberg) Richards. She grew up and graduated in Galena, IL.

Dorothy married the late Lloyd A. Salwolke on August 19, 1950.  They were married for almost 60 years, that were filled with love and laughter. At the same time, she was a wonderful homemaker and raised two sons, along with working at Hills-McCanna for many years. Dorothy and Lloyd built their home in Elgin, where they were longtime residents.

Dorothy is survived by her son, Thomas Salwolke, and grand-dog, Ellie Mae, of Elgin; granddaughters, Lacey (Jason) Richardson of Rockford, and Brandi (Ryan) Gustafson of Schaumburg; great-grandchildren, Viviana A. Vargas of Elgin, Gabriella, Olivia, and Malachi Richardson of Rockford, and Indra Rojo (fiancée of recently passed great-grandson Fernando Vargas III); great-great grandchildren, Isabella, Stella, and Leonidas Vargas; and many nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her great-grandson, Fernando Vargas III (“Nando,” who she called her “little dinosaur”); her beloved daughter-in-law, Dianne L. Salwolke; grandson, Christopher; nephew, Larry Salwolke; son, Anthony L. Salwolke; all five of her siblings, Dennis A. Richards, William “Bill” Richards, Duane S. Richards, and Beverly Moscatelli; and grand-dog, Mia.

Dorothy’s legacy of love for family will pass on for generations. Especially the gift of love through the time she spent in trips Up North and to Galena. Her cat, Sheba, had a special place in her heart. Dorothy found much joy in watching the birds, feeding them, and enjoying her beautiful flowers. She was passionate about politics and enjoyed Wheel of Fortune. We will miss grandma Salwolke dearly and we are so grateful for the time we got to spend with her.  We will always feel her presence in our hearts.

Over the past almost two years, Dorothy was blessed with a caregiver and friend, Sylwia Podsiadlo. Sylwia took phenomenal care of Dorothy. She made Dorothy so happy and was an amazing advocate for her, as well.  Sylwia will always be part of the family and deeply loved by us.

A Celebration of Life Memorial will be held from 1:30pm to 5:00pm, Sunday, October 22, 2023 at Hawthorne Hill Nature Center, 28 Brookside Drive, Elgin, IL 60123.

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Dorothy’s name to Vietnam Veterans of America, or in memory of her, feed the birds.

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