On February 16, 2026, Dorothy Jo Chapin ("Dort") peacefully left this earthly home for her heavenly one, with her sister by her side.

Dorothy was born on April 2, 1948, in Hardtner, Kansas. She graduated from Medicine Lodge High School in 1966 and went on to attend Wichita State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1970. While at WSU, she was a proud member of Alpha Chi Omega. Her studies included enriching summer programs at the University Ibero-Americana in Mexico City and at the University of Arizona in Guadalajara, Mexico. Dorothy treasured these experiences and often spoke of them as some of her proudest accomplishments, as they deepened both her love of language and her appreciation for other cultures.

After graduation, Dorothy began her teaching career as a junior high Spanish teacher in Chanute, Kansas. She later taught in Oswego, Kansas, and for one year at Medicine Lodge High School while Mike Fischer participated in a cultural teacher exchange program. Eventually, she returned home to help care for her father, Ted Chapin.

In the 1990s, Dorothy began hosting foreign exchange students, becoming "Mom" to many young people from around the world. She loved opening her home and heart to them, learning about their countries and cultures, and maintaining lifelong connections.

Dorothy spent her later years on the family farm, in the home where her parents began their married life. The Chapin land, homesteaded in 1878, was a source of deep pride. She lovingly cared for her mother's flowers, tended her trees, adored her cats, and embraced the quiet beauty of farm life. As the family historian, Dorothy preserved stories and memories that will continue to be cherished for generations.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ted and Peggy Chapin.

She is survived by her sisters, Pat Chapin and Cathy (Jim) Colborn; her nephews, Matt Colborn (Britney Carillo) and their children Miley Turner, Kobi Keitel, Connor and Hunter Colborn; and Ted (Kenzie) Colborn and their children Isaiah and Abel Hauser.

She is also survived by her beloved exchange daughters: Izabella Fits, Sylvia Bunuel Ayala, Johanna Nukari, Sophia Herrlich, and Julia Taylor, along with many cousins and dear friends.

Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on February 28 at Highland Cemetery in Medicine Lodge, Kansas, followed by a celebration of life at 136 Leslie Street, Medicine Lodge.

Memorials may be made to Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Medicine Lodge. Trees will be planted in Dorothy's memory at the family homestead, and contributions toward the planting are welcome. Donations may be sent to 136 Leslie, Medicine Lodge, Kansas 67104.

Arrangements are by Affordable Cremations Plus, Wichita, Kansas.