Dorothy Mae Parize - A woman ahead of her times
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Dorothy Mae Parizek, a teacher for 32 years in the Billings school system, loved children. She wanted a career that would make a difference in children’s lives. So, during the depression years in the 1930’s, Dorothy — a woman ahead of her times — pursued a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California.

Dorothy Parizek, 93, died Thursday, September 11, 2003. She was born May 3, 1910, in Wyndmere, N.D., the daughter of Anna and Charles Parizek.

Dorothy’s family moved to Ryegate, where they lived for many years. Later, they moved to California where Dorothy graduated from John C. Freemont High School in Los Angeles.

When reminiscing, Dorothy said, “I became a child welfare worker for Lewis & Clark County. It was very demanding work - emotionally draining.”

Dorothy eventually returned to Billings and taught several grades at Garfield Elementary on Billings south side. “Fifth grade was my favorite,” she said.

While at Garfield, Dorothy became friends with Kitty Sundheim, who has spent her career working as a teacher’s aid at Orchard Elementary. Kitty, one of the founders of the Boys & Girls Club’s very successful Flea Market, agreed to sell an item for Dorothy at the market. Dorothy was looking for a deal - and, got a deal she couldn’t refuse!

After that first introduction to the Boys & Girls Club, Dorothy was hooked. The Club began to receive occasional donations from Dorothy (the most recent was a $10.00 gift on July 30, 2003); and when Dorothy drew up her estate plans, she included the Boys & Girls Club Endowment Foundation in her will.

By establishing a bequest for endowment, Dorothy knew that the same desire that had motivated her to choose a career in social work and teaching - the desire to make a difference in children’s lives - would be carried on through the Boys & Girls Club.

Dorothy said, “I had great parents. Very loving. They taught me about decency. I think that I am somewhat like them.”

From her years of teaching school in various places including Hysham, San Antonio, Portland, Helena and in the Billings school system, Dorothy knew that many children, unfortunately, do not grow up in homes with two loving parents to guide them. “The Boys & Girls Club provides a stable, positive place for children,” she said. “That makes a difference!”