Dorene L. Masters Garnsey

Dorene Masters Garnsey was made of a mold like none other. Beautiful, smart, and witty, she navigated the twists and turns of the river of life like a champion. She was passionate about politics, a perceptive reader and master of the quick comeback. She raised two daughters and two sons and guided them to adulthood with love, skill, and humor.

Dorene was the eldest of three children born to Lawrence and Sylvia Masters. Her brother Larry passed away in 2013.The Masters family lived in Niobe, North Dakota, population 32. Dorene was a transplant to New Hampshire through marriage, but longed for the prairie and the sounds of the meadowlark.

A graduate of Minot Business College, Dorene held various positions in retail, banks, and restaurants throughout her life. She was a hard and smart worker, balancing family life and the demands of earning a living. She found humor and meaning in the smallest things.

She is survived by her children: Cynthia Woods (Deb Patsky) Connecticut; Kenneth Garnsey, Arkansas; Michael Garnsey (Debbie) New Hampshire; Michelle Garnsey, New Hampshire; and sister Janelle Masters, North Dakota. Grandchildren: Christy Woods, Chad (CJ) Woods, Nathan Garnsey, Kara Stoner, Dakota Patsky. Great-grandchildren: Taylie Stoner, Kayden Stoner, Nephew John Masters.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Breathe New Hampshire; a non profit committed to eliminating lung disease (145 Hollis Street Manchester, NH) or to any animal welfare organization.