Dorothy B. Hadrava

Dorothy Hadrava, 90, passed away peacefully on Saturday December 6th, 2025. She was born October 8th, 1935 to Robert and Dorothy Cowperthwaite.

Dorothy began her life in the city of Chicago, where she grew up playing in the streets with her brothers, sister, and many neighborhood friends. Upon meeting her husband Frank and giving birth to their two children, Linda and Donald, she moved with her family to a home in the suburb of Northlake, IL, where she and her husband resided for over 50 years.

A staple of the Northlake community, Dorothy gave her time as a cafeteria worker at Roy Elementary School. She often spoke of “the kids” she cared for, providing them with not only a warm meal, but also lessons in kindness, respect, and inclusion.

Following her retirement, Dorothy’s involvement in her community grew larger still. She gave her time as a Eucharistic Minister at Northlake Lutheran Church, bringing communion to those unable to attend church in person. She also volunteered at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, using her unique sense of humor to bring a smile to those undergoing a difficult time.

In her free time, Dorothy enjoyed swimming in her backyard pool, visiting friends at the Northlake Community Center, and spoiling her grandchildren. She brought joy and love to all of the lives she touched.

Dorothy’s memory is cherished by her family: her daughter Linda (Mike) Gates, her grandson Kevin (Lauren) and great-grandchildren Milo and Nadia Gates, and her granddaughter Allison (Austin) and great-grandson Evan Swan. She also leaves behind her brothers Charles Cowperthwaite and Robert (Carol) Cowperthwaite as well as many beloved nieces and nephews, both by blood and by friendship. She is joyously greeted in Heaven by her husband Frank Hadrava, her son Donald Hadrava, and her sister Janet Colbath.

A memorial service in Dorothy’s honor will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church at 545 Ardmore Avenue in Villa Park, IL 60181 at 10:00 AM. Her family will receive friends from 9:00 AM until the time of the service.