Avis Marie Dodt

Avis Marie (Nelson) Dodt, age 84, of Sand Point, formerly of Farmington Hills, died peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, January 24, 2017, with family by her side.

Avis was born April 17, 1932 in Woburn, Massachusetts to the late Robert and Flora (MacLean) Nelson. She graduated from Waltham (Massachusetts) High School in 1950. She married James J. Dodt on December 21, 1951 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Waltham; Jim preceded her in death on September 9, 2006. In 1953 she moved to Michigan, settling in Farmington Hills until moving to Sand Point in 1994.

Words cannot capture the qualities of Avis. She was a strong, independent, unique woman, who could be a bit of a “pistolla” at times. Avis had a creative, brilliant mind and her creativity knew no bounds – she sculpted, painted, was an impeccable seamstress, built beautiful gardens, and created stunning blown egg ornaments. Avis was also known to repair just about anything! She could also cut a mean rug and would never willingly leave the dance floor.

She was giving and compassionate in all aspects of her life, as evidenced by her career choice to teach special needs children. Avis spent 25 years working with special education students in Farmington Schools.

Avis loved to read, solve crossword puzzles and was a fierce competitor in word games - just ask her friends, children and grandchildren.

Later in life, Avis’ volunteer spirit was ignited to the benefit of many, including the Caseville Library Club and Caseville Eagles Auxiliary 3690 where she served many roles including Past Madame President. She also developed a love of bling, with a little gambling on the side.

Avis was a beloved mother and is survived by her children James (Anne) of Gibraltar, Laurel (Randy) Brandon of Waterford, Robert (Elizabeth) of Sheffield Lake, Michelle Wood of Novi, Kim (Neal) LeBlanc of Farmington Hills, Karol Miller of Grosse Ile and Gail (John) Walker of West Bloomfield; dearest Nana to 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and loving friends.

Avis was preceded in death by her son Timothy, daughter Karen, son-in-law James and brother Oliver (“Sonny”) Nelson.

A memorial service will be at 1:00pm Saturday, January 28th at the Caseville Eagles Club. Friends may visit at the Eagles beginning at 11:00am Saturday. Urn burial will be at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Southfield. Champagne Funeral Chapel of Caseville is handling the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Caseville Eagles Scholarship Fund, 7017 Park Street, Caseville, MI 48725.