Dorothy Camilla Folkers

Dorothy Camilla (Schwarz) Folkers, beloved wife, mother, “Oma” (grandmother), great grand, great – great grand, aunt, cousin, and friend, died peacefully on Sunday, September 14, 2025, in Fishers, Indiana, just two weeks short of her 91st birthday.

Dorothy was born on October 1, 1934, in Chicago, IL, to Otto and Gertrude (Dietze) Schwarz. On July 31, 1954, she married Eugene (Gene) Folkers. In 1957, the growing family moved to Niles, Michigan, after Gene accepted a job transfer with Garden City Fan and Blower Co. when the company relocated its headquarters. Dorothy balanced raising her family with a commitment to lifelong learning and a fulfilling career as an administrative assistant. She served in various roles within Niles Community Schools, where she was known for being dependable, helpful, and always friendly. After Dorothy and Gene retired, they moved to Waynesville, North Carolina, in 2002. There, they built a welcoming community of family, friends, and fellow retirees who also made North Carolina their home. Following Gene’s passing in December 2017, Dorothy relocated to Fishers, Indiana, in 2019 to be closer to her growing family.

Throughout her life, Dorothy expressed her creative spirit in crafting of all kinds and was especially known for her ceramics and accomplished quilting. She found great joy and lasting friendships through her quilting groups, where shared creativity and laughter stitched strong bonds. Her quilts became treasured gifts. Many homes of family and friends, as well as those of newborns and veterans, are warmed and brightened by her handmade creations, each quilt carrying a piece of her heart.

Dorothy’s faith was a central part of her life. She was an active and devoted member of several Lutheran congregations over the years, including Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Niles, Michigan, and Our Savior Lutheran Church in Clyde, North Carolina. She especially enjoyed being part of the church choir and participating in women’s groups, where she formed meaningful friendships and found joy in fellowship and service.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Gene, her son, Jeffrey Folkers, her sister, Eleanor Soderstrom, and her brother, Otto Schwarz.

She is survived by her daughter Janet Gafkjen (William), son Douglas Folkers, seven cherished grandchildren Jennifer Folkers, Julie Owens (Jeff), Jeffrey Folkers Jr. (Lisa), Michaela Robbins (Michael), Alayna Folkers, Nathan Gafkjen (Jessica), and Kira Gafkjen. She is also survived by ten great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy and pride throughout her later years.

A celebration of Dorothy’s life and faith will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are made.