Addolorata (Dorothy) Maria Di Re

Addolorata (Dorothy) Maria Di Re was born on November 23, 1935 to Antonio and Anna Martelli in Cantalupo, Italy. She was the eldest of three siblings and was raised on a farm in Italy before moving to the United States in 1955.

In November of 1958 she married Joseph Di Re who followed her to Tacoma from her home town. Dorothy took pride in working as a surgical technician at St. Joseph’s Hospital for 15 years. In 1971, Dorothy left St. Joseph’s to focus on her children and to work side by side with her husband to build their family business.

Family was everything for Dorothy and she dedicated herself to providing the best for them. She was an exceptional wife, mother and grandmother who loved unconditionally and selflessly. She had infinite patience and energy leading her husband to claim she was “faster than a bee.” Dorothy was happiest when feeding family and friends. She made everyone feel welcome and loved.

Dorothy had a passion for cooking, baking, canning, and working in her vegetable garden. She made amazing meals including homemade bread, pasta, and sauce. She and her husband were avid dancers who enjoyed sharing this activity with friends.

Dorothy is survived by her devoted husband, Joe, sons Samuel (Connie) and Tony (Lori), daughters Maryann Philichi (Matt) and Christina Remmers (Todd), grandchildren Joseph (Meredith), Maria Wilson (Will), Gianna Martinez (Alexis), Mia Fehrenbach (James), Michael, Matthew, Lina, Peter, Nick and Arianna, as well as 3 great-grandchildren, Joelle, Conrad, and Ella. She is also survived by her cherished sister and brother, Emma Di Re (Frank) and Thomas Martelli (Maria), and many nieces and nephews.

Dorothy passed away peacefully on September 7, 2021, surrounded by family. She will always be remembered for her generosity and compassion for others. She truly was the matriarch of her family and a blessing to all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 10:00AM at St. Charles Borromeo in Tacoma.

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