Dorothy A. Mahan

Dorothy Ann Mahan (nee Govednik) passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Thursday, July 8, 2021.

Dorothy is survived by her devoted husband John.  She is also survived by her loving daughters, Joanna (Jeff) Johnston and Lynda (Jean-Francois) Chavatte and her loving son John (Pam).  Beloved Nana to Brooke Johnston and beloved Grandma to Lola Chavatte.  Also survived by sisters-in-law, Barbara (late Joseph) Govednik and Jeanne (late James) Mahan; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Johanna (nee Kosmerl) Govednik; her beloved "favorite" sister, Jean Govednik; her beloved brothers, James, Joseph and William; sister-in-law Diane Govednik; brothers-in-law, James Mahan and Max Mahan; and sisters-in-law, Barbara (Dan) Konno, Mary Broaddus and Lillian (Stan) Rohlfing.

Dorothy’s parents emigrated from Slovenia settling in Joliet and becoming parishioners of the Slovenian established St. Joseph Church.  Dorothy's pride and involvement in her Slovenian heritage continued throughout her life. She was a member of the Slovenian Union of America and as a young adult was captain of their Cadet’s Drill Team. She was a devout parishioner of St. Joseph Church as well as a member of St. Joseph's Senior Citizen Association, the Altar and Rosary Society and K.S.K.J.

Dorothy graduated from St. Joseph’s Grade School and Providence High School. Growing up she had a fun-filled life providing her endless happy memories with her large family and many neighborhood friends. She enjoyed acting in theatre, playing softball, traveling with her friends, and was a member of the Joliet Bowling League.  Dorothy worked as a secretary for the Joliet Arsenal and also briefly worked in downtown Chicago. She enjoyed volunteering for the church and the Shepherd's Table Soup Kitchen.

Dorothy was a devoted wife, inseparable from John for almost 67 years. She was a patient and loving mother, dedicating her life to her family.  She cherished the time spent with her family, holidays and special occasions.   She was so very proud of her two granddaughters.

Beloved by all, Dorothy was a sweet and special lady. Always humble and selfless, she was a role model for all.  The gentlest of souls, Dorothy touched the hearts of all she met.

A celebration of Dorothy’s life will begin on Thursday, July 15, 2021 with a memorial visitation at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Joliet from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Joliet.