Susan Joan Dorler, age 87, passed away peacefully at her daughter's home on April 24, 2026. Born on March 29, 1939, in Elmhurst, Queens, New York, she became a Dutchess County resident in 1962 where she lived a full and meaningful life marked by service, an affinity for education, humor, and her community.

Susan made her home in Wappingers Falls beginning in 1964. Over the decades, she became a beloved and familiar presence in the community, known for her generosity, wit, and lasting contributions.

She is survived by her daughters: Jacqueline H. Dorler of Wappingers Falls, New York; Leslie MacConnell (Mark) of Hopewell Junction, New York; and Jille A. Dorler of Austin, Texas. She is also survived by her brother, Dr. Victor G. Ettinger (Eileen) of Laguna Woods, California; her granddaughter Naomi Evanietz (fiancé Jeremy Heisler); grandsons M. Xu Dorler (Wendolinne) and Zander Luke Dorler; and her great-grandchildren Ruby Heisler and Rowan Dorler Zarate, along with many extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth Bergert Ettinger and George Ettinger.

Susan pursued a lifelong love of learning. She was a graduate of Forest Hills High School and continued her education at Queens College, New York University, the University of Rhode Island, Dutchess Community College (including its Genetics Institute), and Marist College.

Her professional life reflected her passion for communication. Susan was perhaps best known in the community for her work in journalism, writing columns for the Poughkeepsie Journal and the Southern Dutchess News , including the longtime "East Fishkill" column, and serving as an early editor of Hudson Valley Magazine . She also worked in public relations, including her own consulting business, and held roles as a teacher, tutor, piano instructor, and census worker.

For younger generations, Susan became a familiar and trusted figure in the classroom. She served as a substitute teacher in multiple Dutchess County school districts for decades-continuing well into her 70s-sharing her love of learning and steady presence with countless students.

Susan was deeply engaged in her community and gave generously of her time. She was an active member of numerous organizations, including the Community Greeters, Red Hat Society, Wappingers Falls Senior Center, Elks Club, Lions Club, Dutch Treat Club, the Adventuresses of Sherlock Holmes, and the Medical Reserve Corps of Dutchess County. In recognition of her dedication and service, she was awarded the Dutch Treat Club's highly honored Gold Medal.

She had a wide range of interests that reflected her curiosity and creativity. Susan loved reading-especially science fiction-writing, gardening, and playing the piano. She was a lifetime New York Yankees fan and enjoyed music and collecting cat knick-knacks. She was also known for her sharp wit and wonderful sense of humor, which brought laughter to those around her.

Susan had a special gift for building relationships and fostering community, having forged many connections with locals over half a century ago and which still existed to the present. She loved her neighbors deeply, including one neighboring family with whom she shared a special friendship spanning more than 60 years. She delighted in the children on her street, often buying them gifts for the holidays and remembering their birthdays. These thoughtful gestures created lasting memories for many.

Above all, Susan will be remembered for her generous spirit and her deep love for both people and animals. She had a remarkable compassion for animals, often taking in strays and caring for them with tenderness. Even local wildlife seemed drawn to her, gathering near her home as if they knew they would be cared for. She gave freely of her time, her resources, and her heart.

Susan's passing is a profound loss to her family, her friends, and the community she served so faithfully. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, service, and unwavering generosity that will not be forgotten.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc. Please visit her Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com .