dorothy zehnder obituary and dorothy zehnder frankenmuth

Dorothy Zehnder: The Beloved Matriarch of Bavarian Inn

In the close-knit community of Frankenmuth, Michigan, Dorothy Zehnder was a beloved figure. She dedicated her life to the Bavarian Inn Zehnder family, leaving behind an enduring legacy. This article pays tribute to Dorothy Zehnder, the matriarch who played an integral role in building the renowned Bavarian Inn and its affiliated businesses. Her remarkable journey and contributions will be remembered for generations to come.

2. Early Life and Family Background

Dorothy Zehnder was born on December 1, 1921, in Reese, Michigan, a small town located 10 miles north of Frankenmuth. She grew up with a strong work ethic and a passion for hospitality. Dorothy's lifelong commitment to service began early on and would shape her future endeavors.

3. Contributions to the Bavarian Inn

Dorothy co-founded the Bavarian Inn with her husband, William "Tiny" Zehnder, in 1950. While Tiny handled the promotional aspects, Dorothy worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Her culinary expertise and dedication to quality ensured that guests received exceptional dining experiences.

Over the course of 70 years, Dorothy developed and perfected numerous recipes, passing down her culinary wisdom to the next generation. Her meticulous approach to food preparation contributed to the success of the Bavarian Inn's 12 dining rooms, which can accommodate up to 1,200 guests.

4. Dorothy Zehnder's Legacy

Dorothy Zehnder's influence extended beyond the Bavarian Inn's kitchen. Her business acumen, combined with her genuine hospitality, made her a mentor, educator, and civic leader. Dorothy's commitment to the community was unwavering, even when faced with personal challenges.

Despite being diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer at the age of 98, Dorothy continued to contribute to her community. Her indomitable spirit and dedication to giving back were an inspiration to all who knew her. Dorothy's legacy lives on through her family, who carry forward her values and the traditions she established.

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5. Dorothy Zehnder: An Author and Honoree

In addition to her culinary achievements, Dorothy Zehnder was a prolific author. She penned three cookbooks that resonated with readers and quickly sold out. These cookbooks not only contained recipes but also shared stories about Dorothy, her family, and the Bavarian Inn. They became cherished keepsakes for visitors and locals alike.

Dorothy's remarkable contributions to Michigan's tourism industry were recognized with several awards. She was inducted into the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame in 2020 and received the Outstanding Achievement in Michigan Tourism award from the Michigan Lodging and Tourism Association in 2013. Her dedication to promoting and growing Michigan's tourism industry made her a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.

6. The Bavarian Inn Today

Today, the Bavarian Inn Zehnder family continues to build upon Dorothy and Tiny's legacy. Their businesses have expanded to include the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Castle Shops, Bavarian Inn Lodge, Frankenmuth River Place Shops, Covered Bridge Shop, Frank's Muth, Frankenmuth Cheese Haus, Bavarian Bleachers, a specialty line of food products, and an online store. The family also operates the William and Dorothy Zehnder Foundation, which supports various philanthropic endeavors.

The next generation is committed to preserving and growing the Bavarian Inn's traditions while adapting to the changing times. With approximately 1,000 employees, the Bavarian Inn Corporation remains a prominent family-run restaurant in the United States. It serves as a testament to Dorothy's vision and the enduring legacy she established.

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7. Conclusion

Dorothy Zehnder's impact on Frankenmuth and the Bavarian Inn family is immeasurable. Her dedication to excellence, strong work ethic, and genuine hospitality made her a cherished figure in the community. Dorothy's legacy lives on through her family and the thriving businesses she helped build. Her life and contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.

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