1931-2026
Dorothy Arlene Boeck, age 94, formerly of Hiawatha, passed away peacefully at her home in Hutchinson on January 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 15, 1931, in Long Island, Kansas, to Herbert John and Mae Manilla (Lockwood) Richardson.
Dorothy worked as a certified nurse’s assistant, medical assistant, and physical therapy aide during her career. She also gained experience as a waitress, line worker at the Campbell’s Soup Company in Tecumseh, Nebraska, Hoisington 911 Dispatch operator, and as a dog groomer. A passionate and prolific reader, Dorothy especially enjoyed mysteries. She raised registered dogs, specializing in small breeds such as poodles, yorkies, and chihuahuas. Dorothy was fond of country music and loved to crochet, embroidery, sew crafts, paint, cook, tend her garden, and spend time with horses.
In 1947, Dorothy married Cecil Oliver White. Together they had two daughters, Barbara Perkins and Brenda Casillas. The couple later divorced. Cecil preceded her in death.
On May 30, 1953, Dorothy married Robert Dean Boeck in Table Rock, Nebraska. They shared 27 years of marriage before Robert’s passing on March 7, 1980.
Dorothy is survived by her children: Rhonda Keller of Hutchinson, Kansas, Barbara Perkins of Newton, Texas, Billie Jo Boeck of Shawnee, Oklahoma, and Terri Miranda of Hutchinson, Kansas, whom Dorothy fostered and later adopted while living in Hoisington, Kansas. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, daughters-in-law Lucinda “Cindy” Boeck (Bob) of Girard, Kansas and Tina Boeck (Gene) of Hoisington, Kansas, son-in-law Jesse Casillas of Texas, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert Boeck; daughter, Brenda Casillas; sons, Bob Boeck and Gene Boeck; seven siblings; and sons-in-law, Leonard Keller and Grady Perkins.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, April 11th, 2026. Details regarding the location and time will be shared on Facebook. Cremation has taken place.
Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501, is in charge of arrangements.
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