Dorothy Mary Papay

Dorothy Mary Papay (nee: Kangas), 90 years of age, and a resident of Amherst, passed away  Saturday, October 28, 2023, at the O’Neil Nursing Home in North Ridgeville following a long and full life.  

Dorothy was born March 6, 1933, in Chardon, Ohio and came to Elyria at the age of three.  As a young woman she attended Markley School and Lake Avenue School.  She graduated from Elyria High School with the class of 1951.  She went on to attend many breakfasts at Markley School for many years.  Dorothy met the love of her life in grade school and after graduation, she and the late Ernest Papay married on April 18, 1953.  In 1954, she came to South Amherst where she had made her home until 1985, when she moved to Amherst..  

Dorothy was a founding member of St. Vincent de Paul where she was active. She was past president of the Altar Rosary & Society. She was a very successful Avon lady for 34 years where she was recognized for top sales and was a member of the President’s Club. In 2010, she picked up a new ministry, Boxes from Home, where she was able to send 521 boxes to soldiers overseas. In support of her husband, Ernest, Dorothy became an avid philanthropist for the Alzheimer’s Association. She loved to bowl and watch the Cleveland Indians.  By far, her greatest passion was her family.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, friend, cousin and mentor to many people.  She touched many lives over the years going out of her way to be a loving caregiver for those within her reach.  

Survivors include her daughter, Mary (Michael) Congelio of Amherst;; two grandchildren, Cody Congelio, Hannah (Scott) Stefan,; a great grandchild on the way, Callen; and her brother, Harvey (Betty) Kangas, Jr. of Amherst; and a special niece, Celine Rowley.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her grade school sweetheart, Ernest John Papay in 2005; her son, Joseph Scott Papay in April 2022; and her parents, Harvey and Frances Kangas (nee: Charny).

Friends may call Thursday, November 2, 2023, from 5-8 p.m. at the Hempel Funeral Home, Amherst.   Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023 at 10 am at  St. Vincent De Paul, 41295 North Ridge Rd., Elyria.  Rebroadcasting of services will be available at www.hempelfuneralhome.com. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Amherst Ohio.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association,  38440 Chester Rd Unit B, Avon, OH 44011.

For those unable to attend please visit the funeral home's website to share a memory and sign the guest register, www.hempelfuneralhome.com.

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