Retiring teacher, coach urges Colony grads to ‘find their 68’
By Jeremiah Bartz Frontiersman.com A football coach using a hockey reference as the centerpiece for his keynote address may
October 1, 1933 - November 4, 2024
Dolores Lorraine Waffen 91, of Wasilla peacefully went home to the Lord on November 4th, 2024.
Dolores, born October 1st, 1933 in Los Angeles, California the daughter of George and Barre Knorr (Marsh). Dolores married the love of her life Tony, July 1st,1973. Dolores and Tony were passionate adventurers. They were captivated by the incredible landscapes and lifestyle of Alaska. So much so they left their Los Angeles roots behind and built the life of their dreams in Wasilla.
They were joyfully inseparable until Tony's untimely passing on December 4th, 2010. As a lifelong educator, Dolores positively impacted many students' lives in California. A passionate foodie and skilled cook. She used those gifts, creating delicious memories for guests at Across the Bay and Silver Creek Salmon Lodge resorts. She deeply cared for animals, especially dogs, she worked at Plettner Kennels: educating tourists, training sled dogs, and mushing her and Tony's own team. She delighted in The Iditarod, serving at several of the checkpoints. In her later years, she lovingly volunteered at the Palmer Animal Shelter where she adopted her friend Pebbles, a senior Yorkie, bringing them both great joy in the final chapters.
Dolores and Tony were loving and caring for their nephew and niece-in-law Jason & Necole Wesaw, grand niece and nephew Kassidy and Gaige Wesaw. Also, survived by her sister and brother-in-law Judy and Bill Hinz, who shared in great friendship and grand adventures. No matter the distance separated, this tight-knit family always treasured each other's love and fellowship. Dolores' memory will be cherished by beloved friends and the amazing caretakers who treated and comforted her so wonderfully. Dolores was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A mass and memorial service will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Thursday November 14th at 11 a.m.