Rabas, Dorothy

Dorothy Nelson Rabas life long resident of Central Park/Bethpage passed away on November 13, 2007. Dorothy was a member of the Archie McCord Post #86 Bethage since she was 16 years of age, starting as a junior member. She was an active member of the Nassau County American Legion Auxiliary and served as president form 1986 - 1987. As an active member for over 71 years, she worked tirelessly on many projects to help and better the lives of Veterans. From volunteering at the Veterans Hospital in Northport to visiting the Veterans in nursing homes, raising money through Poppy sales and three years ago raising funds for a piano for the Veterans to enjoy. In 2007 Dotty was serving as 10th District Vice President of the American Legion Auxiliary for the Department of New York.

Dorothy was president of AARP from 2001 - 2005. She planned and organized events for their meeting that have ranged from Senior housing, fire safety in the home, community affairs to floral arranging. She traveled to Albany to lobby on behalf of Senior Citizens. Dorothy was honored by New York State AARP for her outstanding work and efforts in the community.

Dorothy has been involved in the Bethpage Memorial Day Parade Committee as the Recording Secretary for the past four years and participated in the very parade she helped organize when she was a very young girl.

Dorothy was a lifelong member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church and sang in the choir for over 30 years and served on the Church Council. She was a member of the Dorcas Aide Society and she would raise funds through Holiday Fairs and sales for Missionary work and for the church. For the past 11 years she served on the Alter Society, and four years ago she was given the "Christian Service Award".

Dorothy was also an active member of the Bethpage Fire Department Ladies Auxiliaryfor over 58 years.

On May 11, 2006 Dorothy was named "Senior Citizen of the Year".

Information from the BETHPAGE TRIBUNE - November 16 -22, 2007