By Staff
SALISBURY — Dorothy Patricia Tetterton Van Lierop was born Oct. 6 and raised on the beautiful riverfront of Washington. From her earliest years, Pat was always known as the most outgoing, energetic (and perhaps a bit mischievous) of the Tetterton children. One of the youngest children of 10, Pat was never one to let herself go unnoticed.
After graduating from high school, Pat left the “home place” to set her mark on the world - literally and figuratively. At 17, she packed her self confidence and sass – along with her cutest outfits – and headed North to radio school in New Jersey. Her work as a World War II home front asset took her to Detroit where she met the love of her life, Beryl Van Lierop.
After a whirl-wind courtship, the two married in a private ceremony in Ohio and began a life together that would span three continents, five countries and eight states, while inspiring countless friendships.
Pat’s charms crossed oceans, borders and language barriers. She easily befriended her neighbors in places such as New York, Fort Worth, Detroit, Buenos Aires, Istanbul, Honduras, and Philadelphia, eventually settling down close to home in Salisbury, easily the favorite city in all her travels.
Admittedly, domestic skills were not her forte. However, eccentric and colorful personality played well in her pursuit of other passions, palm reading, card playing, and most importantly, socializing. Give her five minutes and she will uncover the most interesting details of a stranger’s life.
Pat was a marvel, sometimes even a bit strong-willed, but always someone to be admired. She leaves an amazing treasure trove of memories and stories for her four children, Patricia Van Lierop Banker, Beryl Van Lierop (Susanne), Elizabeth Van Lierop Laska (Mike), and Karen Van Lierop Evans (Chuck), as well as, seven grandchildren and one great grandson, born just this year.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, September 16th at 11 a.m. at Summersett Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Darryl Norris officiating. Entombment will follow at Rowan Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends Monday, September 15th, at Summersett Funeral Home from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Please remember her with your own stories and deal her in a round of bridge every now and again. In her memory, you may also make a donation to the Kiwanis Club, P.O. Box 182 Salisbury, NC 28145, Rufty-Holmes Senior Citizen Center, 1120 Walnut Street Salisbury, NC 28144 or the Lutheran Home of Salisbury, 820 Klumac Road Salisbury, NC 28144
Arrangements by Summersett Funeral Home.
Paid obituary