Dorothy "Gale" Solmonson

Dorothy Solmonson ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Anderson-Marry Funeral Home - Adrian Chapel on Mar. 16, 2026.Dorothy "Gale" Solmonson, a beloved mother, grandmother, cherished aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully at Lynwood Manor in Adrian, Michigan, surrounded by the love of her family.Born in Trimountain, Michigan, to George and Catherine Knight, Gale spent her early childhood in Houghton, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula, alongside her siblings: Tom, Dena, and Elsie. Named Dorothy Gale shortly after the release of The Wizard of Oz, she carried the magic of that story throughout her life, right down to her childhood dog, Toto. In a poetic twist of fate, she later married a sheet-metal worker; those who knew her well, loved to say she had finally found and married her "Tin Man."In the summer of 1958, she met the love of her life, Jack Solmonson. They were married on December 6, 1958, and built a warm, welcoming home in Adrian where they raised their family. Together, they shared 52 beautiful years of marriage before Jack's passing in 2010.Family was the center of Gale's world. She was the proud grandmother of: Jason (Kristen), Joshua (Hannah), Jacob, Chris, Codiee, Lexi, and Jeremy. Her love extended to her furry family as well; she delighted in her nine grand-dogs and three grand-cats, whose frequent visits brought her endless joy.Gale was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her parents, George and Catherine Knight; her siblings, Tom Knight, Dena McClain, and Elsie Schultz; and her daughter, Jacqueline Solmonson. She is survived by her children, Kristine Cooper and Jake (Karen) Solmonson; her seven grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.Gale's life was defined by meaningful traditions and the joy of simple things. She cherished trips to the casino with her daughter, returning to the U.P. for summer visits with family, and quiet afternoons spent doing counted cross-stitch or word-search puzzles. Her legendary Crazy Cake with Buttercream Frosting was a staple at every family gathering, a recipe and a memory lovingly shared across generations.Most recently, Gale became a loved member of the Lynwood Manor community. Her warmth, humor, and gentle spirit quickly endeared her to both residents and staff alike. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, devotion, and quiet strength.In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Lenawee Humane Society.The family will receive friends for visitation at the Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 1pm until the funeral service begins at 3pm.Friends can express sympathies to the family online by visiting the tribute wall at www.marryfh.com Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of Lynwood Manor for their kindness, compassion, and loving care. Your support meant the world to Gale and to her entire family.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.