Obituary for Dorene L Carloni Dorene Louise Carloni (Kufta) peacefully passed away Thursday July 12, 2018 after a short illness from complications of being 96 years young. Dorene was born on a small, isolated, island within the Mississippi River across from Lansing Iowa. She was raised in the Muskegon/Montague area and attended Muskegon Heights High School where she led the band as a drum majorette.
Dorene was a self-employed pioneer for Vivian Woodard cosmetics, playing a key role as a beauty consultant for the Miss Michigan Pageant. Living most of her life married to Stanley Kufta, she was more than a wife and a mother. Dorene challenged herself in many ways including as a Zonta member and championship golfer.
Dorene threw a heck of party and was a talented, creative hostess. Some say the original “Martha Stewart” crafting her own decorations and activities. Long-time residents of her beloved cottage community still comment on her inventive spirit and how she just made everything more fun.
She loved to sing, paint and draw. She was fearless, spontaneous, determined, and a force to be reckoned with whether accumulating master points at the bridge table, returning a volley during a ping pong game, or facing life’s challenges. Her fierce independence was an example to many and allowed her to live life her way.
In 2005 she moved to Naples Florida with her second husband Bruno Carloni. After his death she moved to Sarasota where she lived independently with her two cats. Her lifelong love of animals was reflected in her evening prayers as she recited the names of every family pet, past or present.
Dorene was an inspiration in so many ways. Without exception those who knew her marveled at her energy in her nineties. She could be found driving solo across the country or heading out to her daily card game.
Others recognized her wit and humor, resilience and creativity. She was kind and generous with her affection for people from all walks of life. She ended her life as she began it, full of gratitude for her family and all that life offered, modest or bountiful.
Through her eyes it was all beautiful. She is survived by her children, Kathleen (Rick) Westhoff, Carolyn (James L.) Miller, all of Sarasota FL, Craig (Ann) Kufta and Corene Kufta all of Muskegon; grandsons, Adam Hilliard, Jeff Hilliard, Mike Miller, Jim Miller, Matt Kufta and Eric Kufta; and seven great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Betty Doctor and Dorothy Nipke.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 22, at the family cottage in Muskegon. Memorial contributions in Dorene’s honor may be made to Pound Buddies and/or Noah’s Project of Muskegon. Please share your memories with the family at their online guestbook at www.
sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Walburn Chapel, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd. , 231-759-8565. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dorene L Carloni please visit our Sympathy Store.
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