Dorothy Vera Schugt

Dorothy Schugt, a beautiful soul and bright light, passed away peacefully at her home in Pocatello, Idaho on Friday, July 17, 2020. She was 89. Born February 2, 1931 in Toronto, Ontario and lived a full and active life.

Following her graduation from the 2 year business course at Jessie Ketchum School in 1947, Dorothy worked as a stenographer, a typist and a long distance operator at the Bell Telephone Company, becoming the youngest Supervisor in the company's history.

Brought together by their common German backgrounds, Dorothy married her husband Jack Schugt in 1954, and they emigrated from Canada to Hollywood, California in 1955, where they established their new life as US citizens. Jack and Dorothy welcomed their their daughter Linda into the world in 1956 and moved to Orange County seven years later, purchasing their first house and enjoying the Southern California lifestyle. Dorothy was actively involved in daughter Linda's upbringing and school activities – accompanying on grade school field trips, participating in the Parent Teachers Association (PTA), and together with Jack, instilled Linda with self-confidence and a "can-do" attitude.

During her years in Orange County, Dorothy became active in the state's civic organization, the Federated Women's Club of West Garden Grove, holding many chairmanships and serving as president from 1972-73. She also became known as the quintessential "Sunshine Chairman", sending notes of cheer and encouragement to those in need. This loving trait would become the theme of her life….always touching those around her with kindness and compassion.

In 1977, Dorothy and Jack left California and, seizing a new adventure, moved to Soda Springs, Idaho where they bought and managed the Caribou Motel along with the local Texaco gas station. It was a cultural shock and a challenging shift of lifestyles but Dorothy greeted guests daily with her beautiful smile and cheery disposition for 16 years, until they sold the motel and moved to Pocatello in 1993.

While in Pocatello, Dorothy enjoyed numerous activities - serving as a Pink Lady at the former PRMC, a teacher's aid for 3rd graders, and involvement in their Mariah Meadows homeowner's Association including their acting president for 4 years.

During the summer months, Dorothy and Jack spent time at their cabin in Island Park. They met many wonderful friends and enjoyed fun social gatherings "on the lane" that provided great memories, until Jack's passing in 2014.

Dorothy had a strong and unwavering faith in God and was actively involved in her church, Rocky Mountain Ministries, as well as other local bible studies. She enjoyed participating in the Gate City Ladies Club, as well as creative writing classes at the Bonneville Community Center and a local book club. Dorothy also loved all things ‘arts and crafts' and was always finding new things to make or create.

Dorothy will best be remembered for her spirited personality, classy style, and eternal optimism. Even on the cloudiest of days, the sunshine was just waiting to peek out on the other side. She loved all of her friends and equally enjoyed meeting strangers at every turn.

Dorothy is survived by her beloved daughter Linda Lamb, who resides in Monterey, California with her life partner David Frost. She is also survived by niece Martina Schwaabe and nephew Matthias Schwaabe in Germany, nephew Jeff Schwaabe in Canada, and a niece and nephew in Oklahoma. Linda and her Mom shared a special and extremely close relationship, and adored each other endlessly. Linda was blessed to be by her side when she passed.

Described by many as a "true gem" and a "beacon of light", Dorothy touched many people throughout her life's journey and will be missed by all who crossed her path.

Special Thanks, a personal note from Linda:

I would like to pay tribute to the love and compassion showered upon my Mom during her final months and days: Amber at Care Connections and sweet Diane who cared for my mom daily, Cara at Comfort Home Care including Abbey who assisted on weekends, and sweet Melissa who stepped in for all of the overnight shifts. The teams at Heritage Home Health and Hospice are truly angels incarnate, (so many to name!) and I will be forever grateful for their wisdom and strength provided in mom's final days. Finally, I give special thanks to Judy Swenson, Earl Burdock and my dear friend Jan Eastman who helped my mom tirelessly and showed Dorothy great love and compassion these last few years and months. I love you all and thank you from the depths of my soul!

A Celebration of Life will be held in Dorothy's honor at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 30th at the Alameda Park Pavilion, Wayne Avenue and Park Street, Pocatello, Idaho 83201.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family under the "Tribute Wall" tab above.