Dolores "Dory" Pavek, age 85, of Fertile, MN, died on Tuesday, July 2, 2019 in her home, surrounded by her family, under the care of Hospice of the Red River Valley.

Dolores Marie, the daughter of Jerry and Lillian (Brtek) Preisler, was born on July 31, 1933 at home in Bejou, MN.  During her childhood, she lovingly became known as "Dory."  Following her graduation from Mahnomen High School in 1951, Dory received training as a Licensed Practical Nurse from Bethesda School of Nursing.  She worked for a time at the Crookston Hospital and later at the Mahnomen Health Center.  Dory met Edward Pavek and after dating for several years, the couple was united in marriage on October 20, 1962 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Bejou.  They made their home on the Pavek Farm, near Waubun, MN, and were blessed with two daughters.  Dory worked along side Ed on the farm for many years.  Dory helped with farm work, managed her home and family, and always kept her faith in God evident throughout her daily life.  She lived by the words of "Mind over Matter" making nothing too big of a challenge to overcome.  As a breast cancer survivor, Dory's positive attitude and her belief in the power of prayer is a gift her family will forever cherish.  Dory also spent many years volunteering with Hospice.  She was active with the Waubun Homemakers group, St Ann's Parish, and worked many years with Catholic retreats. Dory loved to garden and was a wonderful cook.  She enjoyed entertaining family and friends, playing cards, shaking dice, crafting, pontooning, and great conversation.  Dory and Ed often enjoyed a quiet Sunday drive watching the crops and delighting in Gods nature.  In 2008, Dory and Ed sold their farm and moved to Fertile to be closer to family.  They became members at St. Joseph Catholic Church and truly embraced their new community.

Dory is survived by her husband, Ed of Fertile; two daughters, Mary Beth Ellegaard of Detroit Lakes, MN, and Joan (Eric) Ellegaard of Fertile; four grandchildren: Courtney Spry, Chelsea (Carson) Johnson, Tyler Ellegaard, and Alyssa Ellegaard; and four great grandchildren: Ava, Landen, Olivia, and Nolan; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Mildred and Florence; and one son-in-law, Barry Ellegaard.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 8, 2019 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fertile. A time of gathering will take place on Sunday, July 7, at St. Joseph Catholic Church from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary beginning at 7:00 p.m.  Inurnment will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Fertile.