Alberta Dobbins

Durango native Alberta Eileen (Parker) Dobbins, died at her home May 3, 2012. She was 83.

She was born to Albert W. "Buster" Parker, Jr. and Eileen Lenore (Dennison) Parker April 6, 1929, in Durango. She attended schools in Durango and California and graduated from Durango High School in 1947.

She met her husband, Ernest E. Dobbins, while working at the New York Bakery in Durango. They married August 16, 1947, in Aztec, N.M.

In addition to being a housewife and raising three children, she had several careers, which included working at Durango Credit Bureau, cooking in the school cafeteria at Needham and Miller schools, and working at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

She was a long standing 4-H leader, involved in the LaPlata County Fair, member of the Extension Home Makers, and made many hats for Mad Hatters and blankets for Project Linus. She was an avid crafter and was always working on a project. Cooking and baking were a favorite passion. She would share with her family and friends, especially at the holidays. She enjoyed having family and friends around.

Mrs. Dobbins was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Dobbins, grandchild Ty Dobbins, great-grandchild Shane Eichthaler, and step-sister Loretta Gallia.

She is survived by her children Gayle Eichthaler of Durango, Carl Dobbins of Durango and Joyce Dobbins Griffith of Durango, five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews.

Cremation has occurred.

There will be a Celebration of Life Potluck at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 27, 2012, at 586 CR 236, Durango. Meat and drinks will be furnished, side dishes or desserts appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you give to a favorite charity or cause.