Dorothy Weiss

Upbeat, outgoing, and always on the move, all who knew and loved Dorothy Weiss can certainly attest to her insatiable zest for life. She made the most of each and every moment, and her warm and bubbly personality was impossible not to love. Nothing brought Dorothy greater joy than being surrounded by her friends and family. Her steadfast strength was a testament to her unwavering faith, and she served as a powerful role model of compassion and integrity. Already so missed, Dorothy leaves behind a precious collection of memories that her loved ones will hold near and dear to their hearts.

Here in the United States, the early 1930s are typically remembered for the impact left by the Great Depression. Families all across the country worked hard to find a way to thrive amid the economic tragedy. Even during such tumultuous times, there was excitement in the air of Saginaw, Michigan, as John and Mary (Baranic) Seman eagerly awaited the birth of their ninth child. Their wait came to an end on November 11th of 1933 with the arrival of their baby girl, who they named Dorothy Ann.

Growing up, Dorothy was a typical girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised in a working class, multi-ethnic neighborhood, exposing her to the beauty of mixed culture. The Seman home was always bustling as Dorothy was one of ten children. Of her siblings, Andy, Mary, Eddie, Paul, John, Steve, Patty, James, and Bill, Dorothy was especially close to her older sister, Patty. Her father worked for General Motors in Saginaw while her mother cared for the home and the children. Throughout her formative years, Dorothy planted the roots of her faith and received her education attending local Catholic schools.

A new and exciting chapter opened in Dorothy’s life on Thanksgiving Day of 1959. She happened to spot a young man outside, and she just had to meet him. Dorothy gathered a bag of trash to “take out” as an excuse, and she headed out to meet Chester Weiss, who would quickly capture her heart. Their first official date was to Christmas Eve Mass that same year, and the rest was history. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Dorothy and Chester were married at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Saginaw on September 17, 1960. The newlyweds then enjoyed a honeymoon up North.

In 1962, Chester’s transfer brought the couple to Grand Rapids. They joined St. Francis parish and settled down in a Francis Street duplex. Just a few years later, Dorothy and Chester joined Holy Spirit parish in January of 1965. She has attended faithfully in the many years since, growing stronger in her faith. Dorothy was active within the church family as well.

Much to Dorothy’s delight, it wasn’t long before her family began to grow. She and Chester were overjoyed to welcome their three biggest blessings, Adam, John, and Carolyn, into their hearts and home. Dorothy thrived in her role as a mother and homemaker. Her days were filled with cooking, baking, helping with homework, raising her children, and keeping the household running smoothly. Dinner was always served at 5:30. During the winter months, Dorothy had fond memories of taking the kids ice skating. She was known for baking delicious pies from scratch, using whatever fruit was in season. The Weiss family enjoyed trips to Cedar Point, Higgins Lake, and to the East Side to visit family. Later in life, Dorothy was thrilled to become a doting grandmother to James, Colin, and Henry. She adored her grandkids and loved spending quality time with them whenever she could. Holidays were always special to Dorothy, providing her with even more time with her loved ones.

Never one to sit still for long, Dorothy kept herself busy with plenty of activities. She let her creativity flow through her knitting, and over the years, she made many blankets, hats, scarves, and mittens for her family members. Dorothy was also a member of a knitting club dedicated to donating hand-knit items to new mothers. She liked going to the casino, and she always made sure she was looking her best with her hair done. Shopping was one of Dorothy’s favorite pastimes. She loved all the stores downtown Grand Rapids had to offer, she could often be found at malls and shopping areas with friends. After Chester received a membership to the YMCA as a part of his retirement, Dorothy began going as a guest. She ended up loving it so much that she got her own membership! Dorothy liked socializing at the YMCA, and she also loved all kinds of the exercise classes.

As we gather to reflect on the life and legacy of Dorothy Weiss, it is easy to see both her unyielding determination and the fierce, unconditional love she held for her friends and family. She was a shining example of kindness, and she always strove to live out her faith in word and deed. A devoted wife, sister, mother, and grandmother, Dorothy’s family was undoubtedly her greatest treasure. Her mantra, “just keep moving,” was truly the story of her life, and the brightness she brought into our lives with her sense of humor and her sunny smile will not soon be forgotten. Dorothy’s memory will be cherished with every story told and in the laughter shared with loved ones.

Dorothy Ann Weiss, age 92, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2026. Dorothy was born November 11, 1933 in Saginaw, MI to the late John and Mary (Baranic) Seman. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Andy Seman, Mary Goman, Eddie Seman, Paul Seman, John Seman, Steve Seman, Patty Seman, James Seman and Bill Seman. Dorothy was a longtime member of Holy Spirit Parish. She lived an active life and frequented the local YMCA, her mantra was “Just Keep Moving”. Outgoing and social, Dorothy was involved in knitting and church travel groups, she loved shopping and never missed a hair appointment! But most of all she loved her family and being a wife, mother, sister and grandmother. Dorothy is survived by her children, Adam Weiss, John Weiss, and Carolyn Seaver; grandchildren, James (Meaghan) Seaver, Colin Seaver, and Henry Seaver; and many nieces and nephews. In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. The Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 11 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 2230 Lake Michigan Drive NW. Friends may visit with her family beginning at 10 AM. Interment will be in Rosedale Memorial Park.