White River Junction, VT- Doris Derosier Grigel, passed away on Memorial Day, May 31, 2021 at her daughters' home, after a period of declining health. She was 97 years of age. She was born on September 30, 1923, in Berlin, NH to Celida Morrissette and Albert Derosier, their youngest of two daughters. She grew up during the depression in the mill city of Berlin NH. Her father owned a small store in the city- and her family, like many in that era, -'just got by'. Her mother passed away early at the age of 40, and this left her and her sister to care for their Dad. This began a lifelong theme in her life of caring for others.

Doris excelled in High school both academically and in athletics, and was a member of the national honor society at the Berlin High School.  She was captain of the basketball team in an era where women in sports was somewhat rare. She was a great skater and spent many cold days and evenings on the rinks of the city, which were prevalent in that time. She graduated High school in the class of 1942 , and like most of the young people of that era started in her own way to help the War effort. Doris was a member of the Nurse Cadet Corps and was trained and graduated in 1946 from the St. Louis (Berlin) Hospital School of Nursing.

At the end of WW II- with the war winding down- she never saw 'induction ' into the army. Her education was covered by the US Government and she then started her nursing career.

She married George Grigel of Berlin in August of 1948 in Berlin, NH. They began a life together, first in their hometown city -and then due to her husband's work moved to White River Jct., Vermont. She first rented –then bought- a home on Demers Avenue in White River where she would reside the next 70 years. Doris and George were married 65 years.

Doris' nursing career began in Berlin Hospital, then after moving to the Upper Valley - she worked at MHMH, Brookside Nursing Home and the VA Medical Center, retiring in 1986. Her caring extended to countless patients, but also very many who crossed her path in life. She was generous to all with her efforts and time, helping neighbors with their needs large and small.

She was an accomplished seamstress and sewing was an art form. She could make, 'something out of nothing.' She fashioned, fixed, and altered - many beautiful items- for countless individuals. She and her husband were active in supporting her church - St Anthony's in White River. She spent many hours doing linens for the church alter, and along with her husband, managed many fund raising events. Her Catholic faith was a guiding beacon and 'service above self' was a hallmark of her being. Her athleticism continued later in life, even a few weeks prior to her passing.  -always walking, always active and always willing to be out in all types of weather.

Doris leaves her 3 children: Gail Tulloch (Michael ) of Canton, NY, Glen M. Grigel (Sallie Amerando) of Columbus, Ohio and James (Cynthia) of East Thetford, VT.

She was predeceased by a son, John, her sister, Lena Anderson, grandson, John Tulloch, and husband, George. She leaves her sister in law, Lillian Brannnen of Florida as well as 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend to many throughout her long life.

The family wishes to extend thanks and appreciation to Allyn and Michael Asis and family- her caregivers and friends later in life. In addition, the great medical care of Dr. Lisa Furmanski and the staff at APD. Funeral services and local arrangements are pending at this time.