Dorothea Dahlem Wilson, lovingly known as Mom and Omi, passed away July 7, 2024, at the age of 84.

She was born on May 31, 1940, in Munich, Germany. Dorothea, or Dorle as many knew her, resided in Boerne, Texas. There, she created a warm and inviting home for her family and friends.

Dorle was the youngest of six children born to Konrad Martin Dahlem and Emma Marie Stiegler Dahlem. Growing up during one the most troubling times in German history, World War II, Dorle managed to push past the destruction and hardships of post-war Munich and embrace the beauty and goodness of life.

On Dec. 2, 1962, Dorle met a young U.S. Army Captain, Dr. Frank Wilson, at a party in Munich. During the next three years, they traveled throughout Europe, enjoying life. They were married twice, Oct. 1, 1964, and Oct. 3, 1964. The first wedding was with full Military Honor and the second was a church wedding at the convent where Dorle’s great aunt Victoria was Mother Superior, in Zangberg, Germany.

In 1965, Fritz and Dorle moved to Texas, and she became a lifelong Texan.

Having four growing kids to raise, Dorle spent decades honing her culinary skills. These skills would earn her smiles from her family and accolades from her friends. One of her greatest joys was cooking for family and friends at her home. Whether it was a regular meal or a holiday occasion, it was always special. In time, her passion for cooking would lead to a once-in-a-lifetime business opportunity.

Dorothea had a passion for bringing people together and making them feel loved. Her favorite pastimes included spending time with her family, caring for her many pets and relishing the moments spent playing with all the animals she had.

Dorothea found joy in the simplicity of life and treasured the time spent with family and friends. She cherished gathering around the kitchen table at night to play cards with whomever was there. Her proudest accomplishments were her family and her treasured recipes, which will continue to be passed down through generations.

Dorle was a lifetime member of the Beethoven Damenchor, a German singing group that has been in existence for 92 years. It is from this passion for music that she co-founded The Beethoven Kinderchor in the 1970s, a German children’s choir that she was the director of through two generations.

Her involvement in these community organizations showcased her passion for German music, culture and camaraderie. She had a deep appreciation for the music of Andre Rieu, Liberace, Luciano Pavarotti and The Three Tenors, spending many precious evenings at San Antonio Symphony performances and the opera.

When she was young, she spent time in London and Paris, immersing herself in the languages and cultures. Later, she would become a world traveler, tagging along on Fritz’s hunting trips, exploring and shopping to her heart’s content.

Dorle had a zest for life that was contagious. Her feisty nature and straight-forward honesty endeared her to those around her. She was known for her generosity and compassion, always willing to lend a helping hand.

Dorle firmly believed in the power of kindness and often carried a handy $5 to give to those in need. Everyone she encountered received a warm embrace that left a lasting impression. She will forever be remembered for her loving nature and the traditions she shared.

Dorle’s Catholic faith provided her with strength and guidance throughout her life. She lived by the motto, “You attract more flies with honey, than with vinegar,” which exemplifies the principles of kindness and understanding that were the cornerstone of her life.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Dr. Frank C. Wilson; her parents, Konrad Martin Dahlem and Emma Marie Stiegler Dahlem; her sister, Hilda Dahlem Kapuscinski; and brother Walter Dahlem.

Dorothea is survived by her son, Patrick Wilson and wife Leanne, children Richelle Raquet and Hunter Wilson; daughter, Cheryl Brayton and husband Robert Brayton, children Margaret, Melina and Elizabeth Brayton; daughter, Tina Wilson and Jim Hinton with Zoe, Odin and Alex; and daughter, Vicky Steubing, husband Brady Steubing, children Haley Steubing Kilgore and Paxton Kilgore with Fluke, and Tanner Steubing.

She is remembered fondly by her surviving siblings, Franzel Dahlem, Konrad Dahlem and Brigitta “Lili” Dahlem Wanka, as well as many numerous friends.

In her memory, let us gather around the kitchen table, sharing laughter, love, a beer and good food, just as Dorle so cherished. She leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth that will forever be treasured in the hearts of her family and friends.

Our Family would like to extend a special thanks to everyone with Kendall House at Menger Springs and Alamo Hospice. They spent a year and a half getting to know our Mom and Omi, and took outstanding care of her throughout. We will be forever grateful for the love and special attention you gave her, thank you.

A funeral service will be held at noon on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the Ebensberger Fisher Funeral Home, with the chapel opening at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at the Boerne City Cemetery.

Services entrusted to Ebensberger Fisher Funeral Home. To leave condolences for the family, please visit: www.ebensbergerfisherfuneralhome. com.