On August 13, 2009, six days before her 79^th birthday, Dorothy M. Maust of Morgantown (and formerly of Tunnelton, WV) passed from this mortal life.  She was surrounded by her loving family in the warmth of her home.  Diagnosed in January 2009, she fought a courageous battle against acute myeloid leukemia.  During her struggles, Dorothy epitomized the true meaning of strength, fortitude, and perseverance, all with a dash of her unique personal humor.

Born August 19, 1930, the youngest daughter of six children of the late Howard E. Simpson and Mabel G. Simpson (Watkins), Dorothy graduated from Morgantown High School with the Class of 1948.  She entered Morgantown Business College, graduating a year later, and began her working career at Sanitary Milk Company.

Dorothy married Raymond L. Maust of Morgantown.  After his death in 1964 in Ashtabula, OH, she returned to Morgantown to raise her two sons, aged seven and five, and she became a member of Harner Chapel United Methodist Church.

Dorothy worked part time as a bookkeeper, first for Dutch Oven Bakery, then for Loving Furniture Company, and finally for Citizen's Savings and Loan on High Street (now Citizen's Bank of Morgantown).  After her sons graduated from Morgantown High School, Dorothy worked full time at Citizen's, retiring in 1995.

While working, Dorothy also excelled in several local and traveling bowling leagues and softball leagues.  She enjoyed recreational golf and participated in numerous 5k walks for various charities.  Along with her family, Dorothy liked to fill her summers and weekends camping in-state and around the country.

In retirement, she continued her very active life, much of the time facilitated through BOPARC activities.  She involved herself in several outings with the Senior Center, was a member of the Red Hat Society, bowled in the Senior Bowling League, and even played kazoo with the Senior Kitchenaire Band at several county fairs and other events.

Dorothy felt a special connection to her two grandchildren David and Cheryl Maust, watching them grow and excel at several activities and sports.  She often traveled hundreds of miles to attend their games.

Before being diagnosed, Dorothy was fortunate to spend time on a wonderful family cruise to Alaska, whale watching and exploring glaciers on foot and by helicopter.  Certainly not to be forgotten was that she was a die-hard Mountaineer fan!

Dorothy (affectionately Dot or Dottie) provided care-giving for her mother and, most recently, her Aunt Edythe in their last months.  She religiously remembered birthdays and special occasions with cards and gifts, and she was quick to offer shuttle service to anyone needing it.  Dorothy will be fondly remembered as a kind, generous, and compassionate mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend.

Dorothy is survived by sons Dennis Maust of Dallas, TX, Gary Maust and wife Renee of Morgantown, and grandchildren David Maust and Cheryl Maust, both of Morgantown.  Also surviving are her sister Margaret Royce of Morgantown, and her brothers Jack and wife Marge Simpson of Morgantown, Charles and wife Elsie Simpson of Bruceton Mills, Ronald and wife Sue Simpson of Bruceton Mills, and Glenn Maust of Melbourne, FL.  Stepchildren Nancy Carr of Fairmont and Sherman Maust of Baltimore, MD, also survive.  Dorothy loved to dote on her numerous nieces and nephews, too.

In addition to her husband and parents, Dorothy was preceded in death by her sister Dolores and husband Red Shannon, both of Morgantown.

Family and friends will be received at the Fred L. Jenkins Funeral Home from 2-4 and 6-8 pm on Sunday, August 16, 2009.  Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Monday, August 17, 2009, at the Fred L. Jenkins Chapel of Prayer with the Rev. Vicki Sheppard officiating.  Burial will follow at Beverly Hills Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions in memory of Dorothy to The Foundation of Mon General Hospital, 1200 J.D. Anderson Drive, Morgantown, WV 26505.  Funds will be designated for the Oncology unit and for Infusion Services, where she was tirelessly cared for with utmost dignity, compassion, and professionalism.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all the doctors, nurses, and aides who cared for Dorothy over the last several months, and for the many words of kindness received via calls, cards, letters, e-mails, and visits during this difficult time.