Dora Gilmore, 85, passed away peacefully October 2, 2026, in Belmont, Michigan after a period of declining health.
She was born February 15, 1941, at home near Wooster, Ohio. She was the beloved daughter of Walter O. and Lucille (Kraus) Gilmore, who instilled in her a deep sense of compassion and commitment that would define her entire life. Growing up in a close-knit family, Dora was surrounded by warmth and support, which laid the foundation for her remarkable journey.
Dora’s life was one of service and dedication, a journey that took her far from her Ohio roots to the vibrant landscapes of South America. She spent nearly four decades in Argentina and Paraguay, where she devoted herself to the ministry, touching countless lives with her kindness and unwavering faith. Dora dearly loved her friends in South America, and they in turn counted her as a beloved family member. As she worked in many remote areas–facing the challenges of rugged living and travel without complaint–her love for others transcended the barriers of language, distance, and hardship. She gave her strength and her heart without reservation and humbly regarded her years of service as a great privilege. Her work at the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center was only the beginning of a life filled with purpose and passion.
Throughout her life, Dora cherished the connections she made with friends and family. She was known for her love of correspondence, keeping in touch with loved ones across miles and years. Her letters were a testament to her caring nature and her ability to maintain deep bonds with those she held dear. Dora’s affection for nature was in line with her respect and love for their Creator. She found joy in the simple pleasures of wildlife, particularly birds, and loved solving jigsaw puzzles, a hobby that reflected her keen mind and patient spirit.
Dora was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Lucille, cherished sister, Ruthopal Nehrenz, brother-in-law, Roy E. Nehrenz, and brother-in- law, Chuck Switzer.
Her memory will forever be treasured by her surviving family, including her brother George (Violet) Gilmore, sister Mary Switzer, her nieces and nephews, among them Scarlett Raines, Mara (Ken) Byers, Charlene (Steven) Gilmore, Troy (Youngin) Gilmore, Susan (David) Buchanan, Denise (Terry) Williamson, and Tina (Steven) Cornwall who lovingly cared for her in recent months, Amy (David) Lentz, Ben (Cheri) Switzer, and Andrew (Jessica) Switzer. She is also survived by twenty great-nieces and nephews and two great great nieces and a nephew.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to those who provided care, companionship, kindness, and support for Dora, especially during her later years. Their love and dedication brought comfort to her journey, and their efforts will always be remembered with deep appreciation.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home. The service will be livestreamed on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Interment will follow in the Hayesville Vermillion Cemetery with refreshments at Kendig in Hayesville following the burial. Family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. prior to the service.
In honoring Dora’s legacy, the family kindly suggests donations be made to a cause dear to her heart, in lieu of flowers or to HOSPICE, 1239 E. Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525. Her life was a testament to faith, love, and service, and her memory will continue to inspire all who knew her.
For those unable to attend, online condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at denbowfh.com.
Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory is handling the arrangements.
Funeral Home: Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home
Website: denbowfh.com