Dorothy Battaglear

Dorothy Ruth Battaglear, 88, of Coffeyville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 26.

Born to the late Ralph Clawson and Emma Kolehorst, Dec.21, 1931, in Chicago, IL; Dorothy grew up in 1930’s Chicago, an era known for Mobsters, G-Men, the Great Depression, and the Dust Bowl. Being very family oriented, she enjoyed going on trips with her family across the U.S., and was very passionate about her children, and grandchildren who she played a major role in helping to raise. Spry in her youth, she is identified as having a very bubbly and cheerful personality. She enjoyed building puzzles, playing cards, and taking a vacation once a year to Las Vegas with her neighbor and friend Alice.

On the sands of Lake Michigan at North Avenue Beach, Dorothy met the love of her life in James Battaglear; who was stationed in Chicago with the Army at the time, and boxed for extra money on the weekends. She then left Chicago to follow James to Coffeyville, KS and start a family; they were married shortly thereafter in 1953. She attended college for business and worked the books for Jim Taylor at Taylor Wholesale early, but then stayed at home with the children until they were old enough to go to school upon James’ request. During this time and until much later in life she would be a cornerstone of Battaglear Concrete in its daily business operation. She began working at Windsor Place as a nurse’s aide in the late 70’s, but after hurting her back was transferred to central supply. Although she retired earlier, she would continue to run central supply until the age of 72; when age and injury kept her from continuing to work. She finally retired to her home where her husband James helped to care for her until his passing in 2017. Family subsequently continued to assist her until her passing on Sunday. Dorothy was a great and influential person who will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

Dorothy is preceded in death by her husband James Battaglear Sr., of Coffeyville; son James Battaglear Jr., of Coffeyville; brother Bud Clawson, of Huma, LA; and sister June Capello, of Chicago.

Dorothy is survived by three children: Marjorie Keys, of Coffeyville; Vicky Usher, of Lenapah; and Bonnie Grundy, of Coffeyville. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

As was the case in life, Dorothy and James Battaglear Sr. will be interred together for eternity following a graveside memorial service for friends and family to pay their respects. This service will occur at a later date that has yet to be announced. The family suggests memorials to be made payable to the Coffeyville Regional Medical Center Foundation and they may be sent in care of Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel 2405 Woodland Ave. Coffeyville, KS 67337.  To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, please visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com