Dorothy Sheehan, 88, of Elgin, who retired in 1980 after a 35-year career as a buyer of cameras and books, died Tuesday in Sherman West Court Nursing Home in Elgin. She worked for the former B.K. Photo, Elgin, a photography-supply store, and the former Joseph Spiess Co. department store, Elgin. During World War II, Mrs. Sheehan was a riveter at the former Douglas Aircraft plant near what is now O’Hare International Airport. Mrs. Sheehan was born in Elgin. “After she was too old to work, she took care of elderly women,” said her daughter Mary Collins. “She was a companion to them.” Her daughter said that Mrs. Sheehan’s health began to decline after the death last year of her sister Gloria Reuss, for whom she had been caring for a year. Other survivors include a stepson, William; and two grandchildren. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday in Laird Funeral Home, 210 S. State St., Elgin. Services will be private.
