Loretta I. Dass

Loretta I. Dass, 84, of Cassopolis, Michigan, passed away April 2, 2026, following injuries sustained in a car accident. After seventeen days in the hospital, she was transferred to the Center for Hospice Care at Esther’s House, where she passed peacefully less than twenty-four hours later.  She was born on September 13, 1941 in Cassopolis, Michigan.

Loretta was truly one of a kind—full of life, love, and goodness. A longtime member of Penn Friends Community Church, she was deeply rooted in her faith and community. She was especially known for her servant’s heart, often preparing meals for funeral and memorial services, and offering comfort to others in their time of need.

In her hometown of Cassopolis, Loretta was known by everyone and loved by all—she could have easily been its mayor. She was one of the greatest storytellers, bringing laughter and connection wherever she went. Funny, thoughtful, caring, and incredibly strong, she embodied the resilience of a true farm girl. Though she was eighty-four, she carried herself with a vitality that made her age seem secondary, taking great pride in her home and yard, which she kept beautifully.

Loretta served on the facilities staff at a local elementary school until the age of eighty-two, where she was adored by both students and staff. Her kindness, work ethic, and warm presence left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Zygferd and Esther Dryer and her brother, John W. Dryer. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Patricia A. Dryer; her nephew, James W. (Katie) Dryer; and her two great nieces, Oslyn and Daisy, who brought her great joy.

Family and friends will gather for a viewing Tuesday, April 14, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in Wagner Family Funerals, 202 North Broadway Street, Cassopolis. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 12:00 noon in Penn Friends Community Church, 19107 Quaker Street, Cassopolis. Burial in Mission Hills Memorial Gardens will follow.

Friends and family will gather to celebrate Loretta’s life following the services to share stories and memories of a life so deeply loved.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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