Dorothea Ruth Duli

Dorothea Ruth Duli, affectionately known as Dori, graced the world with her vibrant spirit from March 23, 1960, in sunny San Diego, California. She passed away in La Mesa, California, on January 17, 2026 after a rather short but grueling battle with stomach cancer. A cherished daughter, sister, mother, and friend, Dori's life was a vivid tapestry woven with love, laughter, and an irrepressible zest for life.

Dori dedicated many years of her life to working at Longs Drugs, where her vibrant personality and warm heart made a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike. She also sold AVON cosmetics for over 30 years and loved everything skin care and makeup. Later in life, she was a co-founder of H2o to Go water store alongside her then husband Brett Sanders, sister Jeanne, and brother-in-law Robert T. Kreuiter. This entrepreneurial spirit showcased her ability to bring people together and forge connections within her beloved community.

Dori was deeply cherished by her family, particularly her daughter Lauren Sanders, who fondly recalls the joy of her mother’s banana bread brought to school during her early years, along with the support she provided as the scorekeeper for softball games. Her love extended beyond family, as she formed lifelong friendships, with Diane Fritz and Carla Ewens being amongst her closest companions. Dori imparted precious life lessons, like the art of shell hunting along the shores of La Roca—a place that held a special corner of her heart.

Dori was not only a mother but also a beacon of humor and vivacity. Those who knew her recognized her as a silly, fun-loving, and witty individual who possessed a sassy voice—one that echoed through her big heart and hearty laughter. Friends remarked on her larger-than-life personality, recounting tales of her spirited conversations and her uncanny ability to light up any room she entered.

Her passion for life extended far beyond her family and career. Dori had an unwavering love for the beach and an infectious enthusiasm for music—especially the playful tunes of Jimmy Buffett and the carefree ethos of Margaritaville. For over four decades, La Roca in San Felipe, Baja California, called to her. It was here, beginning at the tender age of 19 with her first husband Mark, that Dori built a rare and treasured connection with the sea and sun, ultimately earning her beloved nickname, Ha Roca Lady. Even after selling the cherished property, Dori continued to embrace the coastal spirit, recently purchasing a beautiful home in El Dorado Ranch in San Felipe in 2023. There, she cherished moments on her rooftop, cocktails in hand, serenading the vibrant desert skies.

As much as Dori loved the ocean, she was equally devoted to the animal kingdom, embodying the essence of a true animal lover. Her joy was palpable to all who crossed her path, and her zest for poker nights brought friends together, conjuring laughter and camaraderie.

Dori is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Lauren Sanders; her baby sister, Kim Bryant; her brother, George Michael Duli; and her long-time best friends, Diane Fritz and Carla Ewens. Though she leaves behind a legacy of joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories, she is now reunited with those who have gone before her: her parents, Ellen and George Duli; her sisters, Jeanne Duli-Kreuiter and Andrea Duli; and her first husband, Mark A. Redfield.

In the hearts of those who cherished her, Dorothea Ruth Duli will forever remain a symbol of sunshine, beaches, and parrot-head tunes, her spirit thriving just beyond the sunset where she found her greatest joy.