Dorothy Melquist Nicholas

Dorothy V. Melquist Nicholas, 92, of Belvidere passed away Sunday, March 26, 2017 at Alpine Fireside Health Center in Rockford. She was born on April 17, 1924, in Rockford, the daughter of Harold and Anna (Borg) Nelson. She married Donald R. E. Melquist on November 22, 1942 at First Lutheran Church in Rockford. Together they raised 4 children until his passing on August 16, 1973. Dorothy was a devoted charter member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, Rockford, IL. She married Gerald “Bud” Nicholas on August 26, 1989. Dorothy had 3 great loves, God, family, and her church. She was a kind, caring, and loving woman with a wonderful sense of humor. Her amazing inner strength was fueled by her strong faith. Dorothy possessed the most contagious smile and truly never met a stranger. She danced her way into the hearts of all who knew her and will be missed by all.

She is survived by her children, Dale (Jan) Melquist, Donna (James) Linhart, and Debra (Barry) Maltby; her grandchildren, Christopher (Julie) Linhart, Gregory (Melanie Monroe) Linhart, Todd (Tara) Linhart, Michael (Michelle) Melquist, Connie Wells, John (Tina) Steinhour, and Jennifer (David) Shedbalker; her 15 great grandchildren; cousin Carol Stout; nieces, Dana Rogers and Lynnette Vitale; numerous extended family members; and all of her beloved church family. In addition, Dorothy is survived by Bud’s family including 2 daughters, 5 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her daughter, Denise, who passed away on June 8, 1982, her husbands, Donald Melquist and Gerald “Bud” Nicholas, and her parents.

The family wishes to thank the caring staff of Alpine Fireside Health Center.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, March 31, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. at St. Mark Lutheran Church. A visitation will be held at 10:30 a.m. until time of service. Burial at Scandinavian Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mark Lutheran Church. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com