Dorothy Joan Stienstra Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Dorothy Joan Stienstra, 92, of San Mateo passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, surrounded by loved ones.Dorothy was born Dorothy Joan Bradrick on September 21, 1926 in Watford City, North Dakota to Elbert and Cora Bradrick. Growing up, she was extremely close to her brother, Elbert, Jr., and although she lost him at a young age due to the war, she regularly talked about him and the memories they had made together throughout their childhood.Dorothy was a graduate of North Central High School in Spokane, Washington, class of 1944. She then received her R.N. degree from St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1947, and began a long and passionate career as a nurse, serving in various Bay Area hospitals, the majority of that time at the San Mateo County Medical Center. She finished her 35 year career as the nursing supervisor in the ER where she managed the nursing staff until her retirement in 1983. She then happily worked as a medical volunteer until well into her 80’s. In retirement she loved spending time with her family and friends, playing dominos and bridge, and rooting for her beloved San Francisco Giants.Dorothy was loved very much by her family and friends and will always be remembered for her love of others, her strength, and her wisdom. She was a woman who experienced great loss in her lifetime but refused to let it dampen her spirit. She loved life and showed how to persevere, continuing to put one foot in front of the other to the very end.She is survived by three of her four sons; daughter-in-law, Carol; grandchildren Kaia, Johna, Jennifer, Shannon, and Daniel; great-grandchildren Kylie, Noah, Anthony Jr., Ivy, Hailey, and Brooke; and countless friends who meant so much to her. Having clung steadfastly to her faith and its promise of eternal life, she joins her husband, son Brian, her parents and brother in heaven.A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 25, at 11:00 a.m. at Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church at 600 W. 42nd Ave., in San Mateo, with a reception to follow at 55 W. 20th Ave., also in San Mateo. All are welcome to join in the celebration of her beautiful life well lived.

Dorothy Joan Stienstra

September 21, 1926 - May 14, 2019