Dorothy Lea Balsimo, 93, of Winfield, Kansas, passed away early Tuesday morning, November 15, 2011 at Cumbernauld Village.

Born October 11, 1918, in Augusta, Kansas, she was the daughter of Willis David and Ruth Doris (Haynes) Collins. She was raised and received her education in Augusta. When she turned 18 she left for California with two of her sisters.

Shortly after arriving in California, Dorothy married Ernie Jenkins in Los Angeles. The couple made their home in Los Angeles, where she worked as a seamstress. The couple later divorced. She later married Tony Gallaso in Hemet, California. The couple owned and operated liquor stores before retiring. Mr. Gallaso preceded her in death. Dorothy then married Joe Balsimo. They enjoyed traveling with family. Mr. Balsimo preceded her in death.

Dorothy enjoyed sewing and spending time with her animals.

Her family includes:
Her sister: Carrol Conner and husband, Adron Abe of Winfield;
Her brother: Willis David "Bill" Collins and wife, Anna Mae of Oregon; and
Her numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husbands Dorothy was preceded in death by 6 sisters and 4 brothers.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Friday, November 18, 2011, at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. A private family inurnment will take place in California at a later date.

A memorial has been established in Dorothy's name for the Alzheimer's Association. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.