Dorienne Rocheleau

Dorienne Lois Rocheleau, age 95 of Topinabee, passed away peacefully at Hancock Haven on October 31, 2021.

She was born August 23, 1926 in Hazel Park to William and Maxine (Wilsey) Whiteman.

She moved to Los Angeles when she was twelve and graduated from Los Angeles High School, continuing her education at Southern California College of Music. She moved back to Michigan in 1945 where she helped run the family business, Wilsey’s Bakery, in Topinabee. Dorienne was crowned Cheboygan Winter Carnival Queen and Miss Straits of Mackinac in 1949. She married Clarence Rocheleau in 1956. The couple moved to California in 1957 where they raised three children. Dorienne worked as the Cafeteria Manager for the Los Angeles Unified School District, retiring in 1986. The family then returned to Topinabee in 1987, where they purchased and re-opened Hoppies on Burt Lake. Dorienne was an active member of the Topinabee Community Church, where her gracious heart, generosity, and thoughtfulness was known by all. She will be remembered for her kindness toward all and her deep love of close family and friends.

Dorienne is survived by three children; Blaine Rocheleau of Massillon, Ohio; Deirdre “Boots” Wright of Topinabee; and Darby Rocheleau of Topinabee; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence and one sister, Saundra Boutwell.

The family wishes to extend a special ‘thank you’ to the incredible staff of Hancock Haven who have provided and cared for Dorienne, truly giving her a comfortable and loving ‘home away from home.’

Anyone wishing to make a contribution in honor of Dorienne is asked to consider a memorial donation to Northern Michigan Animal Rescue Network, PO Box 165, Topinabee, MI 49791, or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

A joint celebration of life will take place for Dorienne and Clarence at a later date.