Dorothy Carolyn Stafford

Dorothy Carolyn Stafford, 79, of Wimbledon, ND, passed away at home on September 7, 2025.

Dorothy was born January 13, 1946, in Radcliffe, Iowa, to Dewine and Adeline (Creighton) Larson. She grew up in Radcliffe and graduated from high school there in 1963. In 1964 she married Dennis Peterson. They made their home in Alden, Iowa and Dorothy stayed home to care for their 5 children. Dorothy and Dennis were later divorced. Dorothy married Douglas Stafford, and they resided in Arkansas where Dorothy worked as a nurse’s aide in various nursing homes. Douglas served in the U.S. Army and his service would lead them to call many places home over the 30 years they were together, including Germany, Belgium, Fort Carson, CO, Monterey, CA and Fort Belvedere, VA. Dorothy and Douglas were later divorced. Dorothy then moved to Moorhead, MN, to reside in her daughter’s home.

Dorothy’s family is especially appreciative of her good friend and neighbor, Ron Sager, who was always there for Dorothy when she needed someone. Dorothy and Ron took care of each other and enjoyed gardening, canning and a close friendship for many years. Dorothy also enjoyed going to the lake, bowling and roller skating. She loved spending time with her grandkids and great-grandkids and her special dog, Lucy.

Dorothy is survived by her children, Alan (Melissa) Peterson, Columbus, PA, Denise (Paul) Little, Moorhead, MN, Kevin Peterson, IA, Arlan (Linda) Peterson, Southside, AL and Michael Peterson, Churdan, IA; 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Dewine Larson.

The family will celebrate Dorothy’s life on a later date.