Dorris Lorraine Gerke Kresse

Dorris Lorraine Gerke Kresse died on November 28 at the age of 99. Dorris was a woman of wisdom and positivity, her long life lived with humor and heart. While raising her eleven children with husband Eugene, she consistently made it known to her family that she was living her chosen life.

Generous with her love, time, and gentle guidance, she was abundantly present as a mother and grandmother. She encouraged each child to follow their own dream and supported each journey.

Dorris was a creative person. She was resourceful and a problem solver. She sewed her children’s school and church outfits, pajamas and play clothes, and all her daughters' wedding dresses. Dorris cooked, baked, and tried new recipes endlessly. She hosted a weekly Sunday brunch for all grown children and grandchildren until she was no longer physically able.

Though raising a large family, Dorris and her husband Eugene were always active in their community and St Patrick's Church. It was known that she would be the first person to bring another family a roast or a cake. Dorris spent 25 years as a water aerobics instructor and founded the water aerobics class at the Hays Senior Center. For her many volunteer hours there, the city of North Little Rock honored her with her own day, along with awards from the Hays Center and a letter of recognition from President Obama.

Dorris is survived by her children, Tom (Sandy) Kresse, Christy (Jim) Leach, Tim Kresse, Greg (Julie) Kresse, Cynthia Kresse, Sharon Kresse, Lisa (Paul) Patterson, Kevin (Bridget) Kresse, and John (Christy) Kresse; twenty-three grandchildren, thirty-six great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild; and one sister, Irene “Jewel” (Jack) Kordsmeier. She is preceded in death by her husband, Eugene; daughter, Karen Stroud; daughter, Kathy Kresse; her parents, William and Rosalia Gerke; brothers, Father Maurus Gerke and Charles Gerke; and sisters, Rose Marie Kresse and Rita Prieur.