Dorothy E. Harmes

Dorothy E. Harmes 103, of Sycamore passed away Saturday, November 5, 2022, at the home of her daughter after a short struggle with old age.  She was born September 20, 1919, in Sycamore and was the daughter of Lee and Eleanor (Bell) Fancher.

Dorothy grew up in Sycamore and was a dedicated volunteer at Kishwaukee Hospital where she made many friends.  She loved to play the piano and violin, dancing, card and table games.

Dorothy married Jess J. Harmes on June 13, 1942, in Neosho, MO and then moved to DeKalb.

She was a lifelong secretary for several companies including DeKalb Ag and General Electric. Her last 27 years before retirement were spent working at Northern Illinois University. After retiring she moved to Sebring, FL where she continued her love of volunteer work and dancing.

In 2004 Dorothy returned to her home area to spend time with family and her new great grandsons Kyle and Kaleb Paulson.  In 2015 she moved to Barb City Manor in DeKalb and enjoyed the many activities and friendships she made throughout the years.

Survivors include daughter; Sandy (Harmes) Reh, granddaughter; Heather Reh Paulson of Tennessee, great grandsons; Kyle and Kaleb Paulson of Tennessee.  Cousin Mrs. Roberta (Ross) Niebergall of DeKalb.  She was preceded in death by her husband Jess J. Harmes, grandson Adam T. Reh, father; Lee Fancher (1920) and mother; Eleanor (Bell) Welty and stepfather; Floyd E. Welty.  Sister and brother-in-law; Leone (Arlie) Pearce and grandparents; Orton and Grace Bell. Many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Graveside service will be held on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at 11:00am at South Grove Cemetery in Kirkland, IL.  Memorials can be made to ProMedica Hospice of Rockford or Barb City Manor Elevator Fund or the charity of your choice.  The family would like to thank Dr. Thakkar and his staff and the wonderful staff at ProMedica Hospice of Rockford. Arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.