Dorothy Virginia (Thares) Boettcher

Dorothy Thares Boettcher passed away Sunday, April 11, 2021, at the age of 91 in Missoula, MT. Dorothy was born November 3, 1929, in Great Falls, MT to Mary and John Thares. Dorothy was a born and raised a “Westsider” and took great pride in her westside roots. Dorothy was the second youngest of nine children. After high school graduation in 1948, Dorothy attended nursing school at the Columbus Hospital graduating as a registered nurse. In 1954, Dorothy enlisted in the US Navy during the Korean War. She achieved the rank of 2nd Lieutenant and served stateside in naval hospitals on the eastern seaboard. While serving in the Navy, she met Richard “Dick” Boettcher. Dorothy and Dick were married April 16, 1955, and settled in New Jersey, Dick’s home state. While living in New Jersey, Dorothy and Dick welcomed three of their five children, sons, Rick, Brian, and Glen to the family. In 1958, Dorothy, Dick, and the boys returned to Great Falls where they welcomed the last two of their children, Mary and Mark. Dorothy spent a lifetime caring for people as a nurse. When her children were young, she worked the night shift at Columbus Hospital. In the early 70s, Dorothy started working at Park Place Nursing Home eventually becoming the Director of Nursing. Many people recall working for “Mrs. B” at Park Place, and always comment on what a tight ship she ran. Dorothy retired from Park Place in 1995. After retirement, Dorothy stayed busy volunteering with many organizations such as the Great Falls Food Bank and the American Red Cross. Dorothy also spent many years alongside Dick volunteering with the Toys for Tots program providing Christmas presents to children. Dorothy liked to say Dick “volunteered” her for Toys for Tots; however, she loved the work. Dorothy had many pleasures in life, but her grandchildren and great-grandchildren ALWAYS brought the biggest smile to her face. Dorothy always had a cookie or a piece of “grandma candy” for the grandkids no matter what their parents had to say. Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Dick; son, Glen; granddaughter, Christy; and her siblings. Dorothy is survived by sons, Rick (Edie), Brian (Carol); daughter, Mary Burton (Bob) and son Mark; seven grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 12, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel. A reception to celebrate Dorothy’s life will follow at St. Ann’s Cathedral. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Great Falls Food Bank in memory of Dorothy. Due to COVID burial will take place on June 14, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. Condolences for the family may be shared online at www.SchniderFuneralHome.com.