Dorothy Ann Spitzer

Dorothy Ann Lepley Spitzer, age 94, passed away March 31, 2022 at Vista Grande Nursing Home. Dorothy was born in Rainelle, WV, one of twelve children, and the last surviving of all her siblings. She grew up in WV, the daughter of a Baptist preacher and a mother “who could do anything.” She met her husband, Wm Paul Spitzer, at the Rock Lake Swimming pool where he was a lifeguard. She and Dad moved to Rico, Colorado in 1957, and then to Dove Creek, Colorado in 1967.
“Are you hungry” were always the first words out of Mom’s mouth when we walked in her door, and even if you weren’t, you ate. Her chicken and dumplings, stuffed bell peppers, applesauce cake, and anything she made was always delicious. We remember our Christmases by the gifts we received and to be fair, she would always give us the same gift; the Christmas of jackets, of luggage, and the one we all laugh about was the year she gave us all a port-a-potty. She was fiercely protective and proud of her family; if you wanted to stay in Mom’s good graces you did not criticize her children or grandchildren. Her love, encouragement, and support were steadfast.
Mom worked at the Pony Express gift shop in Cortez and started at the first Walmart store when it opened in Cortez. She enjoyed working and all the people and friends she got to see when they came into the store. Even when she went on oxygen for emphysema, she continued to work until she was 75 carrying her oxygen tank around the store. She was one tough lady.
Preceding Mom in death was her husband, Paul; her parents, Bertha and Raymond Lepley, and her eleven siblings. Surviving Mom are her children, Donna (Larry) Suckla, Paulette (Kevin) Barlow, and her favorite, Billy (Marti) Spitzer. She also leaves eight grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren, who Mom also considered the brightest and the best.
A Celebration of Life will take place at a future date, and if you would like to honor Mom, call your family, tell them you love them and give them hugs every time you see them.