Doris Elaine Meneghini

Doris Elaine Meneghini (nee Fritsche) 87 of Dowagiac, MI, passed away Tuesday, October 18, 2016 at Hanson Hospice in Stevensville, MI. She was the loving mother to Edward (Louise) Pajor, the late Michael Pajor and Diane (Vern) Hoffenberg; grandmother to Eddie (Lullen) Pajor, Seth Hoffenberg, Josh Hoffenberg and great-grandmother to Byron, Easton and Nolan Pajor. Doris’ life began on December 18, 1928 in Blue Island, IL, shortly before the great depression. She was the daughter of William & Anna (Mech) Fritsche. She was a graduate of Thornton Township High School in Harvey, IL where she met her husband, the late Edward J. Pajor. Doris showed much musical ability. She became an accomplished pianist after taking private lessons for many years and started an all-girl band in high school. Family and music were Doris’ true passions. After losing her husband after 17 years of marriage, she taught piano at home to support her children. Once her youngest child started high school, she began working at the local school district office for many years. There she met her second husband, Americo J. Meneghini, the music teacher for the school district. They retired to Michigan and spent a large amount of their time playing golf, enjoying music and taking care of their dog, Misty. After losing her second husband, Doris lived alone in the lakeside home and drove her car until age 85. She had many friends in the lakes area and enjoyed her time there. A confirmed chocoholic, Doris was delighted when family and friends came to visit as they undoubtedly would bring chocolate. Her greatest joy in life was her family. She is preceded in death by her dear son Michael Pajor and her sister June Gehrke.