Meridee Dobberstein

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Meridee Dobberstein on May 8, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on September 8, 1941, in Brainerd, Minnesota, Meridee was the beloved daughter of Kenneth and Beatrice (Holmberg) Wolleat, who preceded her in death, along with her cherished husband, Lea Dobberstein. Meridee was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, friend, and wicked card player. She entered into marriage with Randol Akre on December 29, 1962, with whom she had a daughter, Jody. Later, on May 15, 1971, she married Lea Dobberstein, uniting their families (Carol, Nancy, Brad, and Jean) and adding to the joy of their lives with the birth of their son, Jay, in 1972. Together, they raised their six children and shared 42 wonderful years on the Dobberstein Farm. A dedicated educator, Meridee graduated from Washington High School in Brainerd, MN in 1959 and pursued her passion for teaching by earning her AA degree at Brainerd Lakes Junior College in 1961 and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education degree from the University of Minnesota in 1970. She inspired young minds as a fourth-grade teacher and Lead Teacher at Buffalo Lake Hector Stewart Elementary for 28 enriching years from 1978-2006. Known for her firm yet loving approach, Meridee expected the best from her students, nurturing them with the same warmth she extended to everyone she met. Her deep faith was evident in her longtime membership at Zion Lutheran Church in Buffalo Lake and most recently at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Hector. Meridee's life was a testament to her belief in community and service. On her day of passing, she shared with those around her, “I guess God picked today to be my last day”. She knew it was her time, which was truly of the divine. Meridee found immense joy in spending time at her summer home at Velvet Beach on Pelican Lake in northern Minnesota. She was blessed with wonderful lake neighbors who quickly became family to her. She escaped cold Minnesota winters and resided at Silver Ridge Park in Mesa, Arizona. She valued her time with family and friends in the sunshine! She created memories that will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate to share those moments with her. Whether playing a spirited game of Bridge or Cribbage, or newly learned Mahjong, tending to her vibrant flower gardens, watching many sporting events, or engaging in lively conversation, Meridee's zest for life was contagious. Her quick wit, warm smile, and innate ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued were hallmarks of her character. She leaves behind a loving family that includes her children: Carol Runke (late husband Reinhold), Nancy and husband William VanderVoort, Brad Dobberstein, Jean and husband Charles Grimm, Jody and husband Curtis Weis, and Jay Dobberstein and significant other Natasha Quiñones. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Nathan VanderVoort and significant other Tessa Babb, Megan Wettstaedt, Sarah and husband Jim Brennen, Ida and husband Brian McCorquodale, Morgan and husband Michael Kern, Ethan Weis and significant other Skyler Klostriech, Peyton and husband Austin Boen, and Brenna Weis. The joys in her life also extended to her great-grandchildren: Ben, Connor, and Dylan Brennen, Logan and Emmarie Kern, Daxtyn Hewitt, Onyx Babb, and Truly VanderVoort. Meridee is also survived by her dear siblings, Patricia Wolleat, Virginia Smith, Margaret Osborne, Richard Wolleat and his wife Kathleen, and Ann Schwartz and her husband Alex, who along with her beloved nieces and nephews, countless friends and former students, will miss her dearly. As we celebrate Meridee's life, we remember her as a woman of strength, compassion, and unparalleled kindness whose generosity, wisdom, and love touched countless lives. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us, and her memory will forever be a blessing. A Celebration of Life will be held to honor Meridee's life and legacy on Friday, June 19th at Max's Grill in Olivia, MN from 3:00-5:00 pm and also on Saturday, June 20th at the Mission Park Pavilion, 13871 Mission Park Drive, Merrifield, MN. from 2:00-4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made for Student Enrichment at Buffalo Lake Hector Stewart Elementary in her name, ensuring her passion for teaching and nurturing young minds lives on. Rest in peace, Meridee, knowing you have left this world a brighter place.