DOROTHY ROSE VOGT GUMAER

Dorothy Rose Vogt Gumaer died Nov. 24, 2004, in Greenwood Village, Colorado. Dorothy Rose, born in 1915, was an extraordinary woman for her generation. At the age of 21 she left Milwaukee, her hometown, in surrender to the irresistible call of the wild of the Colorado Rockies. The prospect of independence and adventure was running through her veins, and she knew her future was in the West. Upon her arrival, she immediately learned to drive and purchased a 1934 Ford Coup from Frank C. Gumaer, Sr., who became her future husband and father of her two daughters, Nancy and Sally. She spent her life in wonder and awe of the natural world; exploring the forests and walking waterways until she was physically unable. She raised her girls to know, and shared with her grandchildren a deep love for the genius of nature; a genetic inclination for travel; for investigating that which you did not know; for self-reliance and resourcefulness; for pursing a facile intellect and a healthy body. She was unwavering in her principles and yet as gentle as a cool morning breeze, always wrapping her love around us like a soft, silk scarf. Her love for horses and dogs is legendary; she began riding at the age of 21; owned too many horses to count over the years, she slowed down at 75 with a broken hip, but didn't stop riding until she was close to 80. And she saved many a dog from the streets, including her beloved Lucky. She dabbled in art, has several published articles to her credit, was a favorite of students at Colorado College, and never failed to stand up to testify in the defense of wilderness. Her heart was so tender, she often had to shield it against the harshness of the world, but it was always shining for her loved ones and for those who has 'no voice'- the animal kingdom with which we share out planet. She was in the environmental movement before anyone knew what it was; she explored Science of Mind, and delved deeply into religions and spirituality, unafraid of finding something new that would stimulate further inquiry, or change her mind. She loved archeology and paleontology '"" the last book read just prior to her transition, being 'Lady of the Lake,' by Dr. Richard Leakey, the anatomy of the origins of mankind. She left a legacy of impeccable integrity and the value of a quick wit and sense of humor. (We always thought she could make a million in the greeting card industry!) We are so honored to be of her genetic and spiritual lineage; to have seen some of the world through her eyes and her heart. All is as it should be now, once and forever, and we will meet again. And we thank all who passed this way with Dorothy Rose. Private Tibetan-Buddhist Services were held. Donations can be made to Colorado Horse Rescue, Longmont, Colorado, 720-494-1414. For more information go to www.horanandmcconaty.com. Her loving family.