Obituary for Doris (Dot) Richards Widhalm
A truly amazing woman was lost to this world on December 13, 2022. Wife, mother, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend, Dot held steadfast in her love and devotion to them through to her final days. All who knew her never questioned her unwavering dedication to family and faith.
Dot was born in Orlando to Laura and Horace Richards. She was the oldest of the four siblings. Throughout her life she treasured and held dear her close relationship with her two sisters and baby brother. Her mother instilled this value in her. Dot was always fiercely loyal and protective of her siblings.
In 1953, Dot graduated from Winter Park High School. Shortly after, she married her one and only love Donald (Don) Widhalm for his sweetness and movie star looks. As a dedicated wife she followed him throughout his military and running career. Always by his side, they resided in several states, including Puerto Rico, where they conceived their one and only daughter Donna. Upon her husband’s retirement they returned to Winter Park/Orlando to live and be close to family. Dot was a wonderful mother and an even more wonderful grandma. She, along with her husband Don, loved spending time and caring for their two grandchildren Grady and Haley, where deep bonds were formed from a very early age. She was married to Don, the love of her life, for sixty-six years. She was so dearly loved.
Dot is survived by her husband, Donald Widhalm; daughter, Donna Hardwick and husband Greg, grandchildren Grady and Haley, sister Bobbie Wendrzyk , sister Eleanor Hall, brother Buddy Richards and nieces, nephews, in-laws, and many other loving relatives.
Gravesides service will be held December 19, 2022 at 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM (ET). At the Palm Cemetery. 1005 N. New York Ave. Winter Park, FL.