Dorothy Soderholm

Native Napan, Dorothy Glos Arruda Soderholm passed away on

November 19, 2015 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on

June 3, 1919 to Edward and Myrtle Glos. Her sister Margie was born two years later. The two sisters shared a lifetime bond of love.

Dorothy attended Lincoln Elementary and Napa Intermediate Schools. She graduated with honors from Napa High School in 1936, one year early due to her academic excellence. After graduation Dorothy took a summer job at Lokoya Lodge where she met her husband to be, Donald Arruda also known as Bill. In 1941 the two were married; they had 3 children Janet, Joan and Lynn. Dorothy lost her husband Bill in 1969; she remained strong for her children maintaining the family home. In 1971 she married Edward Soderholm also known as Ned. They were married for 35 years and together they provided a place for many family gatherings and treasured family memories.

Dorothy enjoyed many creative activities. Her quilt making was her greatest love.

She made numerous hand stitched quilts for family and friends. She was a Charter and Lifetime member of the Napa Valley Horsemen’s Association. She was very active with the Napa Historical Society where she served as President for 5 years and volunteered over 3,500 hours. When her daughters were growing up she devoted much of her time as a leader of the Mt. George 4H club. Being the beloved secretary at Mt. George Elementary School was the highlight in her many careers. Not only was she able to use her excellent secretarial skills but her kind and caring ways with the students. 

Her most treasured gift was her family. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were the loves of her life. She loved all her kids, even the ones she did not give birth to.

Dorothy is survived by her daughters Joan Latimer, husband David and Lynn Leal husband / almost son Doug Leal and grandchildren, Rick and Julie Lovie,

Jon and Jennie Lovie, Julie Lovie, Hattie, Tyson and Clayton Leal and Megan Bryan. Her great grand children Bailey, MacKenzie, Maeson, Jessica and Cameron Lovie, Mikey Larson and Scout Bryan, numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends all survive her. Daughter, Janet, parents, Edward and Myrtle Glos, sister Marjorie Glos Patten, husbands Donald Arruda and Edward Soderholm all predeceased her.

To the best Mom and Grandma in the world, we love you!!!!!!!!!

A Remembrance will be held at Tulocay Cemetery and Funeral Home,

411 Coombsville Road Napa, California on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at 11:00. A lunch reception will follow the service.

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