“Mary D”, Mary Louise (Slayton) Dornes, 93, died peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at the Sabetha Manor.

She was born on October 19, 1926 on the family farm near Salem, Nebraska to L.W. and Martha (Fisher) Slayton.

She was united in marriage to Charles H. Dornes in October 29, 1944. Two children were born to this union, Daniel Dornes and Bonita (Bonnie) Hanni, seven Grandchildren and nine Great-Grandchildren. Charles died on April 22, 2007.

She owned and operated the historical Sycamore Springs Resort from 1949 to 1966, a public skating rink, swimming pool and camping grounds.

She owned and operated Mary D Dress Shop in Sabetha for 17 years. A tradition began when friends and customers would gather for coffee on Monday mornings. If you were looking for someone you could leave a message with Mary D. After she retired, she continued this coffee tradition for many years in her home. Celebrations, holiday parties, and newcomers to town, were all a part of these gatherings.

Her group of friends formed the “Hysterical (not Historical) Society” who supported each other through happy and sad times in all of their lives and had fun along the way.

She was active in Rock Creek Church of the Brethren; a member of PEO; active with Sabetha Chamber; bowling and golf leagues, playing bridge, collecting antiques, and many other creative projects. She loved traveling to Santa Fe, NM and went on many trips and cruises with friends.

Mary D was preceded in death by her parents; and granddaughter, Amy Jo Dornes in 1979.

Survivors include her son, Dan (Mary F.) Dornes of Sabetha, KS; her daughter, Bonnie Hanni of Lawrence, KS; six grandchildren, David (Delfina) Dornes of Alton, IL, Kevin (Leah) Dornes of Olathe, KS, Melissa Dornes of Sabetha, KS, and Brad (Kate) Dornes of St. George, KS, Jody (Randy) Becker of Corning, KS, and Sam (Sarah) Hanni of Overland Park, KS; nine great-grandchildren, Daxter Dornes, Danica Dornes, Olivia Sharrai, Lyle Dornes, Kennedy Becker, Raegan Becker, Matthew Hanni, Alexandra Hanni, and Scarlett Hanni.

Graveside Services will be Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the Sabetha Cemetery. Mary will lie in state Tuesday morning from 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Popkess Mortuary Chapel in Sabetha, KS. The family will greet friends from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sabetha Manor, sent in care of Popkess Mortuary, 823 Virginia Street, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.popkessmortuaries.com.