Dorothy passed away May 9, 2023, at the Wilber Care Center surrounded by her daughters. She was born on a farm near Swanton to Rudolf and Albie Sukovaty. She attended District 80 Country School kindergarten through eighth grade and went to high school in Wilber, graduating in 1941.
After high school, she worked in several Saline County offices – county superintendent, county clerk and clerk of the district court. In 1962, she was elected clerk of the district court for one four-year term. Later, she was employed at Glaser’s Meat Market, Morea Feeds in Crete and in 1979, started to work at Petersen’s Vice Grip factory.
She married Edward Kovar on May 2, 1944. Through this union, they had two daughters. They celebrated 37 years of marriage. On Dec. 7, 1988, she married Eddie Vocasek and celebrated 18 years of marriage. Dorothy was a caregiver for both husbands.
Dorothy, or “Dot” as Edward Kovar called her, worked hard to reach her goals. For more than 10 years, she devoted time and energy to organizing, planning and leading Girl Scout and 4-H groups. She was a 50-year member of Pythian Sisters and Wilber Garden Club. She created a Home Extension Club, participated in the Democratic party and was a member of the United Methodist Church in Wilber. She received many awards for her community service. For years, she and her husband worked on the Czech Day Parade Committee. Dorothy continued her volunteer work sewing Czech outfits for family, hosting Czech Candidates, making and selling cookbooks and cookies, as well as hosting family and friends every year during Czech Days.
Dorothy liked doing things for her family, decorating for every holidays and birthdays, but especially at Christmas. She demonstrated hard work, courage, strength and perseverance. She was a role model for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She is survived by her daughters, Bonnie (Larry) Kastanek and Janis (Dan) Zahourek; five grandchildren, Dana Olsen (Dave), Jarrod and Justin Kastanek, Paul (Kerri) and Greg (Yvonne) Zahourek: seven great-grandchildren, Madison McKeown, Stella Kastanek ,Riley, Carson, Lena, Preston, Conrad Zahourek; three step-sons: Fred (Denise), Bill (Deb), Gary (Lori) Vocasek; eight step-grandchildren; and 11 step-great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be Friday, May 19, from 5 – 7 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber. The funeral service will be Saturday, May 20, at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Wilber Fire and Rescue, Wilber Methodist Church or Wilber Care Center. Luncheon at the Methodist Church following the services. Arrangements by Kuncl Funeral Home.
