Penny L Dorogi

Penny L. Dorogi, woman of deep faith, departed from this life and entered her Heavenly life on August 1, 2024. 

Penny was born on September 7, 1948 in Niles, MI to the union of Bill and Dorothy Zimmerman. 

She attended Clay High School and graduated with the class of 1966 and then enrolled at Ferris State University. Soon after, she started a career at Dun N Bradstreet, followed by IN Tek, before retiring from the St. Joseph County Property Assessor's office in 2015. 

Penny absolutely adored her pet cats and enjoyed caring for them very much. She was active in the Treasure in Al-Anon Wholly Family group to assist and offer support to family members and friends affected by loved ones who are struggling with alcoholism. Camping brought her joy and peace, reminding her of the beauty and simplicity of life. She was a passionate Notre Dame fan; you could always find her cheering on the Irish win or lose. Penny's love for others extended beyond her immediate family and was shared with many others including her life partner, John Light, his three children, and many other friends she chose as her family. Penny loved going for rides on John's 3-wheel motorcycle and playing cards for hours with her chosen family. 

Penny was preceded in death by John, as well as her parents Bill and Dorothy Zimmerman.

Left to cherish Penny's memory include many friends and family. She is survived by her partner John's sister, Patricia Light Klock (Randy Eustice); John’s children, Jacquie (James) Gregory-Garvin, Toni (Eric) Cooper, Johnny Light Jr.; 9 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; her sisters by choice Vickie (Rodney) Wood, Pattie Base; and nieces and nephews, including Lori (Brad) Quinn, Stacey Wood, and Greg (Mari) Wood. 

A service will be held in Penny’s honor on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 9:00am to 11:00am at Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services, 615 E. Main St. Niles, Michigan 49120. The burial will follow in Silverbrook Cemetery.