Dorothy Louise Gaspar

Dorothy Louise "Dottie" Gaspar, 96, of San Diego, CA, passed away on November 18th, 2024 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

Dottie was the 2nd of two children born to Royce V. Hensley of Kansas and Dorothy Louise (Guessmann) Hensley, eldest daughter of a La Mesa pioneer family.  She was born on November 3rd, 1928, in San Francisco. She and her older brother were named after their parents and were known to the family as "Sis" and "Buddy".  She married WWII Navy veteran John "Paul" Barton at age 19 in San Francisco.  Shortly after the birth of her daughter Paula Michelle, Paul succumbed to cancer at age 33. 

Dottie moved to San Diego where she worked at Miramar Naval Air Station to support herself, her daughter and mother.  A co-worker introduced her to WWII veteran Michael "Mike" Gaspar as a blind date.  Mike called for her sporting a goatee, wearing a gold earring in memory of comrades lost on Guadalcanal and driving a 1949 gold-colored Hudson Hornet with leopard skin-patterned seat covers.  She married Mike, the love of her life, in 1952.  Mike formally adopted Paula in 1953 and her brother Steven Michael was born in 1954. 

In the early 1970's Dottie trained as a medical front office professional and transcriptionist.  She worked for numerous medical practices in the La Mesa area until her retirement in her mid-80's.  She was a talented artist, accomplished seamstress and dedicated homemaker.

Dottie was predeceased by her parents, husband of 54 years Mike, and her brother "Buddy". She is survived by her daughter Paula Stevens and her partner Paul, son Steven and wife Cathy, grandchildren Tom Chandler and wife Andrea of Spanish Fort, AI, Nicholas and wife Corrie and Gerad as well as 4 great grandchildren.

Dottie was lovingly cared for by her son Steven and wife Cathy.  She will be so missed by her entire family.  A celebration of life will be held in the New Year.