Doris, “affectionately known as Dottie” (Milligan) Kleinert passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025, surrounded by family, at the age of 81.
Dottie was born October 20, 1943, in Shawneetown, Illinois. Dottie lived a life full of love, friends, career, and most importantly, as a wife and mother. Dottie grew up in Roxana, Illinois and graduated from Roxana High School. She was a cheerleader and homecoming queen.
She married her high school sweetheart Jack Kleinert in 1961. Together, as a young couple, they began their life journey experiencing the joys, wonders, and adventures together for the next 63 years. They raised three wonderful children: Kathy, Kelly, and Karie. Dottie and Jack were devoted parents who always made time for family. Her marriage to Jack was a testament of true love and partnership.
Dottie had a 50+ year real estate career starting as a part-time agent. She went on becoming full-time agent and broker, working in nearly every real estate office, and finally owning her own real estate office. Her dedication and hard work earned her many awards, achievements, and especially her Graduate REALTOR Institute (GRI) designation. In 1986, she was elected President of the Alton/Wood River Board of Realtors.
Dottie’s outside activities ranged from water-skiing, volleyball, tennis and snow-skiing. Finally, golf, yoga and walking became her passion. She always loved playing cards, especially Bridge. In golf, Dottie belonged to the “Birdies” Golf Club and the Monday Night Couples League (MNCL) golf club with Jack.
She loved visiting Phoenix to see her family and winter trips to Florida to visit dear friends. Trips to Italy, France, and Iceland were some of her favorite experiences. Attending the final round of the 2022 Master’s golf tournament in Augusta and winning the MNCL‘s golf championship in 2023 were among the highlights over the last few years.
Dottie was deeply committed to the Zonta Club of Alton-Wood River for over 30 years serving many capacities including Chairman of the Services Committee, Vice President, and President. After moving to Alton, she joined the Godrey Women’s Club. She loved working in these wonderful, local organizations.
Dottie is survived by her beloved husband Jack and their children: Kathy (and her husband, Danny Walker) of Phoenix, Kelly (and her husband, Scott Slayden) of East Alton, and Karie (and her husband, Matt Stultz) of Scottsdale. She has many beloved grandchildren: Mica Badini, Tara Gruler, Ryan Walker, Dylan Walker, Sydney Slayden, Spencer Slayden, Seth Slayden, Jacqualine Stultz, Madison Stultz, Alexandra Stultz, Faith Stultz and her Great-Grandchildren: Giovanni Badini, Alyssa Badini, Piper Gruler and Wyatt Gruler.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service, in memory of Dottie, will be held on Saturday, April 19th, 2025, at LoveJoy United Presbyterian Church in Wood River. Those who wish to pay their respects are welcome to attend anytime from 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm with a short memorial service beginning at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to LoveJoy United Presbyterian Church or the Zonta Club of Alton/Wood River.
Dottie was a remarkable wife, mother, and woman who touched many lives. She will be profoundly missed. We now celebrate her life and cherish the memories we have shared. Rest in peace, Dottie, mother, grandma, great-grandma, friend. Your spirit will forever remain in our hearts.
Marks Mortuary in Wood River entrusted with arrangements.
