On Thursday, Nov. 12, 2015, at 97 years of age, Doretta died peacefully in her home in Kalispell, from natural causes. She was surrounded by family and friends.

Doretta was born in Mitchell, South Dakota, on Nov. 20, 1917, to Thomas and Panzie Wagner. In 1930, she moved to Kalispell with her family and finished high school there. They resided on her father’s farm in the Lower Valley. She met Lawrence Guy Nees in the spring of 1935 at the Nazarene Church in Kalispell. They were married in 1936 and celebrated 67 years together.

During their years together, she worked hand-in-hand with Guy as he served as a pastor, college president, and World Missions Director for the Church of the Nazarene.

She spoke at women’s events, led junior high groups, played the piano in ministry and was the consummate hostess. She led the women’s Auxiliary Club, raising funds, directing meetings and planning events for the college. She taught Bible studies, had an open door policy and was always eager to help those in need. She traveled with her husband to Africa, India, and many other countries in their service for the Church of the Nazarene.

Doretta was known for many gifts and qualities. She was an excellent seamstress, knitter and artist in many genres. She loved gardening and was a wonderful cook.

Doretta has been described by her children as being gracious, kind, joyful and gentle. Her grandchildren remember her for her unconditional love and consistency. Home always came first in her list of priorities.

Doretta is survived by her four children, Tom and Pat Nees of Arnold, Maryland, Ronald and Ginna Nees of Kalispell, Lois Wagner of Kalispell and Carol Nees and Les Brown of Kalispell. She loved her 13 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter (10 months old). Doretta is also survived by her sisters, Lois Watteyne and Bonnie Cole, both of Kalispell and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Guy Nees, and her sisters, Marie Lawrence and Darlene Laurin, and brother, George Wagner.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 16, at the Church of the Nazarene in Kalispell.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Frontier Hospice, 42 Bruyer Way, Kalispell, MT 59901, the Parkinson’s Foundation through United Way of Flathead County, 40 Appleway Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901 or to Nazarene World Missions through the Kalispell Church of the Nazarene.

Johnson Gloschat Funeral Home is caring for the family.