In loving memory of Alice Doppelfeld, 90 who brought sunshine into our lives with her infectious laughter and warm embrace. With a heart as big as her beloved Midwestern meals, Alice lived a life rich in love, family, and the occasional mischievous adventure.
She passed away the morning of the 16th of March 2024 at Aster Place in Lafayette, IN. She was born October 26th, 1933, in Lafayette to the late Carl and Bertha Smith. On May 28th, 1955, she married John Doppelfeld, he preceded her in death.
She attended St. Francis’ girls’ school in Lafayette, was a long-time member of St. Mary’s Cathedral, St. Ann’s, and most recently, a member of Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. She made many friends through her life in her neighborhood, church, and her work at Alcoa and McCutcheon, in particular Pat Buschman, Bonnie Richardson, and Jane Martin.
From her early days growing up on the family farm, surrounded by her 13 siblings, Alice was a beacon of joy. Who could forget her remarkable talent for reciting all 14 Smith children’s names in the blink of an eye? Her stories of sibling shenanigans were legendary, especially those involving her five brothers.
During her time working at ALCOA, she caught the eye of her future husband John, also on the ALCOA bowling league. But it wasn’t just her bowling skills that won John over – it was her warm smile, her kind heart, and her unparalleled talent for baking cookies. After their marriage they raised their family of four daughters at the Doppelfeld home in the outskirts of Lafayette. Alice’s kitchen was a magical place where she whipped up batch after batch of mouthwatering treats, with her Icebox Pecan cookies reigning supreme (John’s favorite). And let’s not forget her homemade egg noodles, a staple at every family gathering and a testament to her Midwest culinary prowess.
When she wasn’t in the kitchen, Alice could be found engaging in her other passion: games. A dice and card savant, she spent countless hours teaching her grandchildren the tricks of the trade, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. She also loved attending basketball, golf, swimming and tennis matches for Jessica & Hunter, always cheering on her favorite players. Alice and John truly enjoyed time spent playing games with their friends. They met weekly to laugh, chat and play following a dinner date.
Alice was a reliable babysitter and caretaker for the Zimmerman family and enjoyed their visits and company throughout her life. She thought of Ryan, Erin and Evan as her own grandchildren and they in turn reciprocated that love.
She is survived by three daughters, Carla Reeves (Jerry), Denise Webb (Chris), and Mary Wetli (Tom). She has six grandchildren: Jessica Hollinger, Hunter Hollinger (Sydney), Christine Webb, Sydney Webb, Tanner Wetli (Lizzie), and Zachary Wetli, three great-grandchildren and a sister, SR. Maria Smith. She was preceded in death by her husband, John as well as her daughter Paula Killmer.
As we gather to celebrate Alice’s remarkable journey, let’s remember her for the love she shared, the laughter she spread, and the cookies she baked with such tender care. Though she may be gone, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Rest in peace, dear Alice. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our memories, and your recipes will forever grace our tables with love and warmth.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Alice’s life at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd, Lafayette, IN 47909 on Friday at 1:00 with a memorial starting at 2:45 p.m. a graveside service will follow at 3:30 p.m. at St. Boniface Cemetery.
Those wishing may contribute to Natalie’s Last Chance Dog Rescue.