Obituary of Lonnie Dorward

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Lonnie Jean Dorward, 67, born on July 8, 1956. Lonnie passed away peacefully on June 7, 2024, with her family by her side. She bravely battled cancer, maintaining a positive outlook throughout her journey.Lonnie was a graduate of Nottingham High School and Bryan & Stratton College, which paved the way for her career at NTTS. As a pioneering woman truck driver, she later became an instructor, building close relationships and deeply impacting her students lives.An ardent animal lover, Lonnie devoted 30 years to her furry friends working at Wag Side Inn and volunteering tirelessly at the Cat Coalition with her cherished granddaughter, Maddy.Her kindness and selflessness touched countless lives. Lonnie's joy for thrifty shopping, culinary skills, especially her famous soup, and her sharp wit will be dearly missed by all who knew herLonnie is predeceased by her mother, Diane Ferraro; father, Gary Youngberg; brother, James Youngberg; and niece, Adrienne Paskell. She is survived by her daughter, Jamie Crawford; son, Gary Dorward; three sisters, Melissa (Lee) Goodman, Tony Marshner, and Lolly (Bob) Williams; 2 brothers, Kurt (Dori Ann) and Jason (Kristin); six grandchildren, Maddy, Leah, Olivia, Chase, Caleb and Marley; her ex-son-in-law, Brian Crawford, who remained close to her; several nieces and nephews; and her beloved cat, Gus.

Arrangements are being handled by Hollis Funeral Home and in accordance with Lonnie’s wishes, services will be private. A celebration of her life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Cat Coalition of CNY PO Box 6182 Syracuse NY 13217 or ONLINE www.cnycatcoalition.org or Helping Hounds of CNY 7268 Caswell Avenue North Syracuse NY 13212 or ONLINE www.helpinghoundsdogrescue.org