Dolores (Dolly) was born October 15, 1928 to Marcus and Ophilia (Garcia) Gutierrez. Born in Detroit, she was raised in Taylor where she lived with her parents, older brother Mark and maternal grandmother Rosanna (Tafoya) Garcia. Dolly grew up in a family rich in both Spanish and Mexican heritages. Food was central to family gatherings, which included family members from many generations.Dolly began her education at Edison School, a one-room schoolhouse in Taylor. There she met a young boy who was destined to become her lifelong partner and devoted companion. Jimmy Bencsik was in the fifth grade when he proposed to Dolly Gutierrez. She loved his sense of humor and fun loving personality. They became high school sweethearts at Melvindale High School graduating in 1946. This friendship became a love story that spanned almost 78 years. Married in 1950, Jim and Dolly’s partnership was marked by devotion and commitment that lasted nearly 68 years. They raised two daughters, Judith Minton Tipton and Janis Lee Brubaker. Over the years they welcomed son-in-laws, Michael Tipton and Brian Brubaker, grandchildren Kate Bellows and Mary Minton (Tommy Bertin) and Nicklaus, Joshua and Rachel Rose Brubaker, two-step grandchildren James and Katie Tipton, and 2 great-granddaughters.Although her life was over shadowed by ill health, Dolly never let it stop her from creating a loving home and pursuing many creative interests. She had a keen eye for decorating, crafts and antiquing. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed historic novels. She also enjoyed old movies and crossword puzzles. She took great pride in her personal appearance even in her later days. Dolly was a homemaker who also worked as medical assistant, secretary and entrepreneur. She and daughter, Janis owned and operated the Holiday Shoppe in Allen Park for 4 years. Dolly and Jim were founding members of St. Cyril of Jerusalem Catholic Church (now known as Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church) and St Cyril of Jerusalem Elementary School. She supported the parish as a member of the Women’s Altar Society, helped at many festivals, and provided meals for funeral lunches. She regularly attended Mass until her health became too fragile. Everyone who knew Dolly will remember her for her class and grace, her devotion to her husband and family, her quick wit and especially her courage in the face of numerous health challenges. She never complained but lived a life of gratitude for the many blessings. God bestowed upon her. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, April 7th at noon at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church. The church is located at 6442 Pelham Road, Taylor Michigan. A private internment will take place at Michigan Memorial Park, Flat Rock, Michigan. Donations may be made to Angela Hospice at http://www.angelahospice.org or by calling 734-464-7810.
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