Dorothea Gertrude (Dilley) Donaldson, age 87, of Red Oak, Iowa, passed away Monday, February 17, 2025, at her home at Arlington Place. Dorothea was born May 21, 1937, in Red Oak, Iowa the daughter of Llewellyn Albert and Laura Viola (Payne) Dilley. She graduated from Red Oak High School in 1955 and was united in marriage to Blaine Lowell Donaldson in Red Oak, Iowa on August 27, 1955.

Two sons were born to this union: Brent Alan Donaldson in 1956 in Storm Lake, Iowa, and Brian Alex Donaldson in 1962 in Waterloo, Iowa.

They lived and worked in Northwest Iowa, later moving to Northeast Iowa, before returning to Storm Lake, Iowa in 1967 where they spent the remainder of their professional careers. Dorothea was an administrative assistant at Faith, Hope & Charity, a home for special needs children, and later at Buena Vista University.

In retirement, they spent their time between Kingsley, Iowa, the Northwoods of Minnesota, and Sun City, Arizona. Dorothea later returned to Red Oak to enjoy her remaining years. In retirement, Dorothea enjoyed spending time with grandchildren, along with quilting, sewing, and other needle crafts.

Dorothea was preceded in death by her parents; brother: Jack L. Dilley; husband: Blaine; and son: Brent Donaldson. She is survived by her son: Brian (Laura) Donaldson of Centerville, GA; daughter-in-law: Deb Donaldson of Kingsley, IA; grandchildren: Andy Dunn of Farragut, IA; Mallory (Jesse) Van Gerven of Plainfield, IN; Eric (Dusti) Donaldson of Garden City, TX; Laura (Joe) Schanz of Chicago, IL; Amy (Bruce) Donaldson of Omaha, NE; Tyler (Leah) Donaldson of Rochester, MN; and Clint (Emily) Donaldson of Urbandale, IA, several great-grandchildren, other relatives, and many friends.

Dorothea will be interred later in the Garfield Township Cemetery near Webb, Iowa.

Memorials may be directed to St. Croix Hospice.

LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.