Dorothy R. Fullerton

Dorothy R. Fullerton

Dorothy Ruth Fullerton, age 92, of Chambers, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011, at her home in Chambers.

Visitation was held from 5-8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19, 2011, at Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011, at the United Methodist Church in Chambers with Rev. Bill Stovall officiating. Music was provided by Fern Briggs, pianist and Mark Durre, soloist.

Pallbearers were Dale Fullerton, Randy Fullerton, Brad Skala, Eric Skala, George Fullerton and Rex Gribble.

Burial was in the Chambers Cemetery.

Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill was in charge of arrangements.

Dorothy was born on April 21, 1919, to Charles and Ruth (Swengel) Spath in Plainview. She spent her early years in Plainview. After moving to Amelia with her family at age eight, she attended country schools in the area.

She was married to George D. Fullerton in July 1935, in South Dakota. To this union, three children were born: Donald Martin, Phillis Jean and Dale Richard.

They ranched in Amelia for over 40 years raising Hereford cattle, working side-by-side through good times and the hardships, including the death of their 15-year old son, Dale, in 1958. She was a true pioneer, working in the hayfields, helping neighbors, raising chickens, milking cows, gardening and canning, feeding hired men, raising her children and being a loving wife.

Dorothy and George loved to go dancing and socializing with their many friends. She opened her heart and home to all friends and family, always making more food than anyone could actually eat (especially her famous fried chicken and apple pie). 

She was involved with the Methodist Church (both in Amelia and Chambers), including the WSCS (Women's Society of Christian Service). She was a member of 4-H, the Cowbelle's (Nebraska Cattlewomen), two extension clubs (Merry Matrons and Happy Homemakers), pinochle and bridge clubs and the bowling league.

Through the years, Dorothy decorated cakes for weddings and various celebrations. She demonstrated her expertise on how to spin wool on her spinning wheel at schools across the state of Nebraska, the state fair, museums and other events. She also taught each of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren the art of spinning wool.

After the death of her husband in 1979, Dorothy lived on the family ranch in Amelia for a few more years, and then moved to Chambers where she has lived for the last 25 years.

She enjoyed spending time with her friends, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and recently, her great-great-grandchild. Dorothy will be remembered for her generous heart, quick wit, adventurous spirit, abundant love and her devotion to family. She leaves a legacy of love and will be dearly missed by all.

Dorothy is survived by one son, Donald Fullerton, Apple Valley, CA; one daughter, Phillis Skala and husband Gene of Riverside, CA; six grandchildren: Kelly (Fredo) Casillas, Riverside, CA; Dale (Kimberley) Fullerton, Warner Springs, CA; Randy (Cris) Fullerton, Havana, FL; Brad (Kelley) Skala, Riverside, CA; Shari (Bee) Gribble, Chambers; Eric (Rebecca) Skala, Riverside, CA; 14 great-grandchildren: Brandon (Jennelle), Stephen and Cameron Casillas; Cara and George Fullerton; Clayton, Maddie and Hallie Skala; Halie, Rex, Kacie and Ross Gribble; Caitlyn and Gavin Skala; one great-great-grandchild, Kennedy Casillas; one sister, Angie (Mick) McMillen, Riverside, CA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son, one brother, Frank Spath; one sister, Mary Lou Moore.

Memorials may be made to the Chambers Methodist Church.