Obituary of Doris Sareyka
Doris Sareyka age 96, of Hockessin, Delaware, went home to be with the Lord peacefully at her home on July 24, 2026.
Born in West Deptford, New Jersey, to Charles and Edith Cattel Dunner, Doris spent the last five years in Hockessin after previously living in Wilmington, Delaware, and Ogden, Pennsylvania. A devoted follower of Christ, she worshiped faithfully throughout her life—formerly at Linwood Methodist Church and ValleyPoint Church, and most recently at Legacy Church in Wilmington. Doris lived with an unwavering faith and will be remembered for her joy in worship, her deep love for God's Word, and the way her encouraging spirit impacted everyone she met.
Even into her 90s, Doris was always ready for an adventure, especially with her friend Betty Pekala, often keeping a small, packed bag in her trunk "just in case." She never wanted to miss a moment, especially when it involved her family, whom she cherished deeply. As the beloved matriarch of the Sareyka family, her legendary Christmas gatherings—often hosting more than 75 people—were a highlight of every year and a reflection of her love, hospitality, and pride in her family.
Throughout her working years, Doris held various roles, including driving a school bus for the Chichester School District, serving as a supervisor at Medaphis, and working as the financial secretary at ValleyPoint Church before retiring. She enjoyed sewing, crafting, playing the piano, and spending peaceful days at the beaches in Lewes, Delaware.
Doris was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Armin Sareyka; her second husband, Delmar Berkmeyer; her eldest son, Bruce Sareyka; and her brothers, Don Dunner and Charles Dunner. Her legacy of faith, love, and encouragement will continue to live on through her family.
She is survived by her sons Larry Sareyka, Gus (Laurie) Sareyka, Jeff (Lorraine) Sareyka, and Steven (Lorrie) Sareyka; her daughterinlaw Billie Sareyka; 15 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
A viewing will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Pagano Funeral Home, 3711 Foulk Road, Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by interment at Gracelawn Memorial Park in Newark, Delaware. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Legacy Church at legacychurchde.com. Online Condolences may be made by visiting www.paganofuneralhome.com
