Dorothy L. Kernica, age 85, of New Smyrna Beach, passed away Sunday, June 4, 2023 at her home with family by her side. Born in Evergreen Park, Illinois to Frank and Dora Harnew, Dorothy came to the area in 1979 from Crestwood, Illinois.

Dorothy graduated from Oak Lawn High School, Illinois and attended Valparaiso University in Valparaiso Indiana.  She married Leo Kernica in 1965 in Illinois and together started their family and a wonderful life journey.

Dorothy, affectionately known as Dee, was a well-known respected local travel agent for over 20 years. She immensely enjoyed her travel groups and continued traveling all over the world after retirement. Dorothy was a member at Trinity Lutheran Church. She was an avid reader and loved to do crosswords. She loved children, animals and had a wonderful sense of humor.  Dorothy was a great caregiver to her mother and her loving husband, Leo.  She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother and friend that will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved her.

Dorothy is survived by her husband of 58 years, Leo; daughter, Sharon (Bob) Wiley, of New Smyrna Beach; son, Jay Kernica of Deland; Grandchildren:  Jed Wiley, Ross (Melissa) Wiley,  Jeff (Shelley) Wiley and Josh Kernica ; and great grandson, Fisher Wiley. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Frank, and sister, Marianne.

The family wishes to thank friends, family, caregiver Amanda and Vitas for their support and wonderful care.

In lieu of services and flowers, memorials may be made to Vitas, 2323 State Rd 44, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 and the Southeast Volusia Humane Society, 1200 S Glencoe Rd New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168.

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