Dorothy M. Fredenburg (McKnight) “Dottie”

Dorothy Fredenburg – affectionately known as “Dottie” – passed away peacefully on Monday, January 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of her children. She is now joyfully reunited with her beloved husband of 60 years, William “Bill” Fredenburg, likely enjoying an embrace and reflecting on a life well-lived together.

Dottie leaves behind her children, Mark (Diana), Bill “Tad” (Cathy), Amy (Kris) Stasiw, and Lyn (Kurt) Christensen, who are still debating which one was her favorite. She also leaves her cherished 10 grandchildren, Sean Fredenburg, Lindsay (Matt) Lehr, Kelly (Jackson) Sutton, Danny (Lauren) Fredenburg, Jake Fredenburg, Megan (Kevin) Lagueras, Hailey (Kevin Eadie) Clark, Todd (Jessica Williams) Christensen, Annika (Matt Perry) Christensen, and Geoff Christensen, who all agree that while “Gram” was a fierce competitor in family games – becoming a surf board during Reverse Charades or winning at Cards Against Humanity, her fun spirit kept everyone laughing. Her legacy extends to her seven great-grandchildren, Eleanor, Henry, and Amelia Lehr; Avery McKnight Sutton; Haiden and Alaric Lagueras; and Kemmet Christensen, who all adored “Gigi”. Dottie is also survived by her sister Barbara “Babs” Kutcipal, who shared many laughs with her over the years, and countless nieces and nephews, as well as her faithful friend, Judy Klauck.

Born in Utica, NY on June 2, 1928, to the late Samuel and Marguarite McKnight, Dottie spent her early years in Buffalo, NY, before the family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan. In a time when few women went on to college, Dottie graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Rockford College in 1946 and worked as a Medical Laboratory Technician. Her journey eventually led her to Rochester, NY, where a blind date turned into a 60-year love story with Bill. They raised their family of four in Henrietta, NY, where Dottie and Bill became fixtures in the community.

A devout and faithful Catholic, Dottie dedicated nearly 65 years of service to Good Shepherd (St. Marianne Cope Parish) – a legacy of service that surely earned her a special place in heaven. Her devotion to faith was matched only by her dedication to her family. Whether cheering from the sidelines at her grandkids’ sporting events, clapping proudly at their graduations, or smiling warmly as she walked down the aisle at their weddings-including the most recent one this past July-Dottie was always there, sharing in their joy and achievements.

She and her husband, Bill, shared a passion for adventure, traveling to breathtaking destinations like Alaska, Europe, and Australia, leaving behind a trail of memories as vivid as the places they visited. Yet, their annual trips to Letchworth State Park held a special place in their hearts. These family traditions, complete with plenty of laughs, stories, potato salad and a “friendly” game of football, remain a treasured part of her legacy.

Dottie’s passion for quilting and knitting “grandma socks” brought joy to everyone around her. Everyone wanted a pair, even the boys as her creations were creative and made with love. Her evenings were a delightful spectacle, featuring her trusty recliner, a half-eaten bowl of Wegmans white chocolate raspberry or salted caramel ice cream for dinner, and her knitting needles clicking in rhythm with Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. She’d shout out answers to Alex Trebek, confident in her knowledge.

Throughout her life, Dottie showed her love and support to Bill, most notably in her role as a caregiver during his many illnesses. Her strength, and steadfast spirit illuminated the depths of her devotion, proving that her heart was as expansive as her quilting supplies. After Bill’s passing in 2014, Dottie carried on with the same unstoppable strength and spirit that endeared her to everyone she met.

Calling hours for this remarkable woman will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. (3325 Winton Road South, Rochester, NY). A service will follow on Saturday, February 15 at 10:00 at Guardian Angels Church at St. Marianne Cope Parish (2061 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY) with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, Dottie’s family kindly requests contributions to Rochester Regional Hospice (330 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607) [Donate Online].