Meridee Dobberstein

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the peaceful 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, and son-in-law, Reinhold Runke. Meridee was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She entered into marriage with Randol Akre, with whom she had her daughter, Jody. Later, on May 15, 1971, she married Lea Dobberstein, uniting their families and adding to the joy of their lives with the birth of their son, Jay, in 1972. Together, they raised their 6 children and shared 42 wonderful years on the Dobberstein Farm. A dedicated educator, Meridee graduated from Brainerd High School in 1959 and pursued her passion for teaching by earning her Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Minnesota. She inspired young minds as a fourth-grade teacher and Lead Teacher at Buffalo Lake Hector Stewart Elementary for 26 enriching years. 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. Meridee found immense joy in spending time at the lake with family and friends, creating 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, 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, Nancy and husband Bill VanderVoort, Jean and husband Charles Grimm, Jody and husband Curtis Weis, and Jay Dobberstein and significant other Natasha Quinones. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Sarah and husband Jim Brennen, Megan Wettstaedt, Nathan VanderVoort and significant other Tessa Babb, Ida and husband Brian McCorquodale, Morgan and husband Michael Kern, Ethan Weis and significant other Skyler Klostreich, Peyton and husband Austin Boen, and Brenna Weis. The joy of her presence is further extended to her great-grandchildren: Ben, Connor, and Dylan Brennen, Logan and Emmarie Kern, Daxtyn Hewitt, Onyx and Truly. Meridee is also survived by her dear siblings, Patricia Wolleat, Virginia Smith, Margaret Osborne, Richard and Kathleen Wolleat, and Ann and Alex Schwartz, 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 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 Saturday, June 20th at the Mission Park Pavilion, 13871 Mission Park Drive, Merrifield, MN. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a local educational charity 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.