Dorothy J. (Larnick) Cichocki

Dorothy J. Cichocki, lovingly known as Dottie, passed away peacefully at home while holding her husband’s hand on Monday, April 17, 2017.  She was 62 years old.

Born in Wilmington, Dottie is the daughter of Robert J. Larnick, Sr. and the late Lucie I. (Westerman) Larnick.  She was a graduate of Newark High School Class of 1973 and the University of Delaware, where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing.  For over 20 years, she was a registered nurse at St. Francis Hospital before spending the last 15 years working at Meadowood Behavioral Health Hospital.

Dottie was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, as well as the Delaware Orchid Society.  During her youth, she was involved with the Girl Scouts.

Dottie’s favorite times were spent with her husband, Gerry, whom she met on Valentine’s Day.  They enjoyed traveling all across the United States on their motorcycle and were proud to have visited 42 states, having seen some of our country’s most beautiful sites.   Through the years, Dottie and Gerry enjoyed skiing, camping and star gazing, especially at Cherry Springs State Park where, in 2001, they were fortunate to view “The Northern Lights” in all of its glory.  She loved spending time at the beach on Long Island Sound and Ocean City, NJ. 

In her leisure time, Dottie enjoyed growing orchids, vegetable gardening and going to flower and craft shows.  Dottie was a talented seamstress who especially loved quilting.  She was also an amazing cook who was known for her angel food cake, Christmas cookies and fudge.  Dottie enjoyed prepping and smoking ribs with Gerry.

Family was the center of Dottie’s world.  She loved taking care of everyone, especially doting on her nieces.  She will be remembered for her kind and giving spirit.

Dottie is survived by her loving husband of 24 years, Gerard T. Cichocki; her father, Robert J. Larnick, Sr.; her brothers, Robert J. Larnick, Jr. (Amy) and daughters, Christina and Nina, William D. Larnick and daughters, Jessica and Nicole; her father-in-law, Raymond J. Cichocki, Sr.; her brother-in-law, Raymond J. Cichocki, Jr. (Marybeth)  and children, Erin, Melanie and Mike; her sister-in-law, Karen Hall (Clifford) and son, Kevin; her great nieces and nephews; as well as her beloved dog, Kelli.  Dottie was predeceased by her mother; her mother-in-law, Elizabeth M. Cichocki; and her nephew, Matt.

Dottie is also survived by her devoted friend of 55 years, Maggie Menton, whose love, care and support is deeply appreciated.  Special thanks as well to Dottie’s sister-in-law, Amy Larnick, the staff of Heartland Hospice, co-workers and friends for their care, compassion and thoughtfulness.

Family and friends may visit at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Pike Creek on Saturday, April 22 from 9:00-10:30AM, with a celebration of Dottie’s life beginning at 10:30AM.  Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faithful Friends, 12 Germay Drive, Wilm., DE 19804 (www.faithfulfriends.us) or the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, 1776 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20006-5303 (www.dar.org).

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