DOROTHY JEAN BIRDSEY

Feb. 28, 1930 – Aug. 17, 2023

Dorothy Jean Birdsey, age 93, passed away peacefully at McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey, Michigan, Aug. 17, 2023 with her beloved husband Gordon at her side. She and Gordon shared 56 wonderful years together.

Dorothy was born Feb. 28, 1930 in Ferndale, Michigan, to Earl and Catherine Spain and raised in Redford, Michigan. The family moved to Greenbush, Michigan, where she graduated from Oscoda High School in 1948, then graduated from Bay City Business College.

Dorothy was a voracious reader, excelled in needlework and loved playing Bridge. She was a loving Mother and outstanding homemaker. Prior to moving to Petoskey, Dorothy, Gordon and family lived in Troy, Michigan. In retirement they moved to Alpena, Michigan.

Preceding her in death were her parents; sister Evelyn; brother Don; step children Kathy and Timothy; and her first husband Richard Gardner.

Surviving Dorothy are her husband Gordon; son Michael Gardner (Susan), daughters Lynne (James) Johnson, Lisa Wilbur, Kristin Birdsey and step daughter Cindy McKinney; grandchildren A.J., Jeffrey, Drew, John, Heather, and Matthew; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

No service will be held per Dorothy’s wishes.

Family suggests contributions in Dorothy’s memory be made to: St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.