(From Ulmer Funeral Home)Dorsey Walter Van Mater, 100, passed away Tuesday, October 6, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri. Dorsey was born October 13, 1925, in California, Missouri, to William B. Van Mater and Hedwig (Ludeman) Van Mater.
Dorsey graduated from California High School in California, Missouri. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, from 1943 to 1946, as a radio operator and rear dive bomber (also known as “Tail-end Charlie”). Dorsey retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone Company after 40 years of service. He was a member of the Carthage Lions Club, serving as president for a time, and he also sold brooms for some of their fundraising efforts. Dorsey transported eyes to Kansas City and St. Louis for Eye for the Blind. He was also an Elk member in Nevada, Missouri.
Dorsey was united in marriage to Mary Lou Pennington on July 14, 1946, in California, Missouri; she preceded him in death.
Dorsey is survived by his two sons, Steven Wayne Van Mater and his wife, Pamela, of St. Louis, Missouri, and Gary E. Van Mater of Carthage, Missouri; five grandchildren, Jaime Olivia Stro and her husband, Jarett, Julie Hartman and her husband, Chris, Andy Van Mater and his wife, Rauleen, Amy Van Mater, and John Van Mater and his wife, Amanda; and ten great grandchildren.
Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.
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