Dorothy Lillian (Salem) Johnke Pavel, 89, of Council Bluffs

Dorothy died Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Hansen House in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Funeral services will be at 11 AM, Monday, October 12, 2026 at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Lake Andes. Burial is in the Riverview Cemetery in Centerville. Visitation is at the church on Monday from 10-11 AM. 

Dorothy Lillian Salem was born on July 4, 1937, to Tony Sr. and Hazel (Knisley) Salem. She joined her older brother, Tony Jr., bringing joy to the family on Independence Day.

On December 27, 1958, Dorothy was united in marriage to Henry Johnke Jr. Together they raised five children—Tamara Marie, Sandra Jean, Vicki Lynn, Gordon Eugene, and Gregory Allen—creating a lifetime of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Henry passed away in 1986.

In 1991, Dorothy married Rudolph Pavel, and the two enjoyed many years of fun, companionship, and adventure traveling together until his passing in 2009.

Dorothy lived a full and happy life. Although dementia affected many of her later years, she never lost her faith and always held her loved ones close in her heart and memory.

Although she will be missed terribly, we find comfort in knowing that Dorothy is now resting in eternal peace in her heavenly home, rejoicing in the loving embrace of our Lord and Savior. Her circle of love is now complete.

Grateful for having shared her life are her children: Tamara (Gerald) Wynia of Avon, SD, Sandra (Clint) Holmes of Lincoln, NE, Vicki (Robert) Hedlund of Papillion, NE, Gordon (ex-spouse Diane) Johnke of Sturgis, SD, and Gregory (Carmen) Johnke of Florissant, CO. Dorothy is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. She is further survived by her brother, Tony (Vonnie) Salem of Des Moines, IA; sister-in-law, Nancy Johnke of Santa Barbara, CA, and along with many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory. We also remember her faithful four-legged companions, Starr and Henry.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Tony Sr. and Hazel Salem; her husbands, Henry and Rudolph; her parents-in-law, Henry Sr. and Fern (Johnson) Johnke; her sister-in-law, Alice (Leland) Kiepke; and brothers-in-law, Kennard (Delores) Johnke and Donald Johnke.

Dorothy’s life was defined by her love for family, her unwavering faith, and the joy she brought to others. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.