Dorothy Katz Obituary

Katz, Dorothy "Dory"

Dorothy "Dory" (Kaplan) Katz, age 96, passed away peacefully in her own home, in the company of her two daughters. Beloved wife of William Katz, who died in 1984, Dorothy is survived by her daughters Judith Katz Pasternack (John), Nancy Katz (Kathy Wildman). She was "Bubby" to her beloved grandson and caregiver Brian Pasternack. She adored and was adored by her many nephews, nieces and great nieces and nephews. Dory was the youngest of six loving sisters who preceded her in death: Lillian (Alvin) Sosin, Ruth (Jules) Roth, Florence (George) Harris, Beatrice Kaplan, and Evelyn (Charles) Hoffman. A professional French Horn player since the age of 19, Dorothy was a member of the Indianapolis, New Orleans, and Columbus Symphonies and she taught at Ball State University. She delighted in relaying that she was hired by Lincoln Park Zoo to play for the crocodiles because the sound of the horn resembled the animals' mating call. She also freelanced in the Chicago area with many orchestras and ensembles, including the Chicago Symphony and Lyric Opera. She developed a thriving teaching practice at home and in the North Shore schools, turning out many fine and devoted students, some of whom went on to professional horn careers. She was proud of her family and in particular, her legacy as a trailblazing female brass musician in the 1940's. She had an incredible gift for making everyone she encountered feel valued and important. Dory was fun-loving and feisty with a wonderful sense of humor and a contagious laugh. Passionate about sports, justice and inclusion, she was a role model for all. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jewish Reconstructionist Congregation, www.jrc evanston.org or a charity of your choice. Attendance at services are private. To leave condolences and for information, including a public link to view the service in real time and a link for Shiva: Shalom Memorial Funeral Home (847) 255-3520 or www.shalom2.com

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