Dorothy Ablasa Sparlin

Dorothy Ablasa Lucas Sparlin, fondly known as Dottie, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the age of 95. Born on September 18, 1929, in the beautiful city of Honolulu, Hawaii, Dottie lived a life rich in love, compassion, and community spirit.

Dottie grew up with her three cherished sisters, Mabel, Betty and Gladys. She was a devoted sister, mom, grandma, great grandma and aunt to her children, nieces and nephew, always ready to offer her love and support. Dottie was preceded in death by her dear sister Mabel Lucas, sister Gladys Lucas, and cherished family members including nephew Jeffrey Ficke, niece Jerilyn Ficke-Epperson, and grand-niece Shannon Eckliffe. She is survived by her loving sister Beatrice (Betty) Ficke and her two adoring children, Lynette Ward and Ginny Little, and Ginny’s husband, Thomas Little. Dottie also leaves behind five grandchildren, Holly Ward, Kerri Ward, Justin Little, Travis Little, and Ashlee Owens, as well as two great-grandchildren, Travis Laisure and Connor Laisure. She will be lovingly remembered by her nieces Jennifer Worful and Jeanine Ficke Jones and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Dottie’s work ethic was evident from a young age, as she and Betty began working at just 12 years old, contributing to their family’s livelihood during the challenging times following the Pearl Harbor attack. They worked for a local physician and spent afternoons working in the pineapple fields. During the high school years, they took a position at Sears, Roebuck & Co., a job Dottie continued after relocating to Denver, Colorado, following her marriage. Dottie enjoyed a fulfilling career as a news editor for Rocky Mountain Construction Magazine, where her writing and passion for communication shone brightly. Even in her retirement, Dottie continued her commitment to service by volunteering with the Colorado Springs Police Department, embodying her belief in helping others.

A true community member, Dottie was deeply involved in her local community and dedicated much of her time to lending a hand to friends, family, and animals alike. She cherished her time spent at the Salvation Army Chapel in Colorado Springs, where she formed lasting bonds with fellow attendees.

Dottie had a zest for life that was infectious. She found joy in cooking and eating good foods, particularly her love for apple fritters and Dim Sum. She relished family game nights where her competitive spirit was on full display. With a remarkable talent for giant Jenga, she often had her tower reaching impressive heights, a testament to her playful nature and ability to bring laughter to those around her. Dottie’s warmth and kindness made her a beloved figure in the lives of many; her characteristic readiness to help others, whether they were human or animal, will forever be remembered.

A celebration of Dottie’s extraordinary life will be planned with details to be announced in the future. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Dottie’s name to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at QR code below or to your local animal rescue or shelter, reflecting her lifelong compassion for people and animals.

Dottie leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service. She will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched. Rest in peace, dear Sister, Dottie, Mom, Grandma, Auntie. Your spirit will live on in our hearts.