Dorothy Louise Stout

Dorothy Louise Lekin was born on the family farm near North English, Iowa. She spent her childhood on the farm and walked to school at the Grant Country School. After graduating from North English High School Dorothy worked in Cedar Rapids.  She returned to North English and married Lynn Harriman.  Together they farmed, milked cows and raised their son, Terry.  

When Terry graduated high school Dorothy began employment as a legal secretary for Elwood and Elwood in North English. She enjoyed her 22 years working for Richard and Michael until she was ready to retire.   Dorothy spent her retirement with her husband Rex Stout tending beautiful gardens and yards.  Many hours were spent making sure everything was perfect. She grew the prettiest pink petunias and weeds did not stand a chance of surviving in her gardens.  She enjoyed being in the kitchen; cooking, baking her delicious apple pies or making cookies she would keep in the freezer so she’d always have a treat for visitors.   Dorothy was the best at making the most delicious strawberry jam.  

Dorothy dearly loved her grandchildren, Trent and Taylor, and never missed an activity they were involved in. Often arriving at away games before the team bus even got there.  Her seat was always right in front so they were sure to see her cheering them on. 

Dorothy moved to Valley View Assisted Living and then to English Valley Nursing Care Center where she enjoyed breakfast with her daughter-in-law Julie most mornings and where the amazing staff treated her like she was their grandma. The patio garden soon became her favorite place to be, “sneaking” out there any chance she would get. Many times she would come back inside with her walker bag full of weeds and sticks she had gathered.   Dorothy enjoyed being the tour guide for golf cart rides, pointing out every pretty flower they passed along the ride.

One of Dorothy’s favorite activities was going on Ranger rides out to the farm to check the crops or look at the cows. She had many stories about when she used to work hard on the farm.  

Dorothy passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at the English Valley Care Center in North English at the age of 87 years.

Dorothy was loved by many and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Celebration of Life Service will be held 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at the Powell Funeral Home in North English. Burial will be in the North English Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00 am until service time on Saturday. Memorials may be given to the North English Christian Church, the North English First Responders or the English Valley Care Center Activity Fund. Messages and tributes may be left at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.