Dorothy (Dotti) Lea Plaski
February 24, 1942 ~ November 28, 2025
Born in:
Sanford, Maine
Resided in:
Simsbury, Connecticut
With great love and deep sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Dorothy Lea Plaski(Dotti) on November 28, 2025 at age of 83 at her home in Simsbury Connecticut surrounded by her loving family.
Born on February 24, 1942 in Sanford Maine to Leonel and Cecile Gauthier. The oldest of 5 sisters, Dotti carried the wisdom, strength and humor of an eldest child, guiding her family with both resilience and heart.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband Brian in 2012, grandparents, parents, several aunts, uncles and cousins, her nephew Steve Roy and niece Traci Young.
She is survived by her children; Mark Hartwell and his wife Kathi, Sandi Welton and husband Scott, Allison Loudon and husband Michael. She was Memere to her grandchildren, Brittany Diemer, Scott Gerry, Brendan Gerry, Gavin Welton, Bridget Loudon, and Mackenzie Loudon as well as several great grandchildren.
She is also survived by her sisters Patricia Wright, Sandy Doiron, Joanne Howard, and Linda Rouillard along with several nieces and nephews.
Dotti is also lovingly remembered by her ex husband Tom Hartwell, devoted father of their 3 children and an always present source of support and comfort throughout the years. The mutual respect and love for each other as parents never wavered.
Dotti was known for her sharp wit and famous one-liners-delivered with perfect timing and an expression so straight it made them twice as funny. Her humor brought light into every room, offering comfort and true joy to those around her. Yet behind the laughter was a deep, steady stoicism. She met life’s challenges with grace and despite her recent years of declining health was always a source of stability and quiet strength for her loved ones.
Dotti began her career as a waitress at Hickory Pit in Sanford and later at Vincent’s Restaurant in Ogunquit Maine. The memories of working along side their Mom are treasured by her children and remain priceless reminders of her dedication and care. She later transitioned to a career in banking at Sanford Institution for savings where she worked until her retirement.
She will be remembered for her humor, strength, unwavering love and guidance she shared throughout her life. Her legacy endures in the family she cherished and the countless lives she touched.
The family would like to give special thanks to those that provided the exceptional care she was given. Elena, Paula, Nabeina, Joanie, Oxford Home Care and McLean Hospice.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society at Https: donate.cancer.org
A celebration of life will follow at a later date in the spring.
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I was married to Dotti for 15 years we raised 3 beautiful children together Mark ,Sandi,And Allison.we had some wonderful years together.We always respected each other ,and always put our children first. I am very saddened by her passing
Today was the first time learning of Dot’s passing. I was very saddened hearing this..
We’d known each other since we were kids, growing up in the same neighborhood. Great times and memories.
My deepest condolences to the family💙
Dotti was the very first person we hired at Vincent’s Steak & Lobster House in 1981. She was a great waitress, but more importantly she was a great friend and an amazing lady.
She was always upbeat, positive and became the Godmother of the restaurant. Her 3 kids Mark, Allison & Sandy all worked for us as well and they became the original base that grew Vincent’s and then Vinny’s into a family of over 500 forever friends. Great memories of fantastic times together. Here is an Alabama Slammer to you Dotti. To the good times. ❤️
Dot was always cheerful and friendly to all who knew her. As the years passed we were always happy to meet at class reunions for St. Ignatius HS. It was heartwarming to read her obituary as her family meant the world to Dot. My condolences to the family at this time.
God bless you and may her faith in Jesus bring her eternal rest.
A grade school & high school friend,
Paula Morin
I am very sorry to hear of Dot’s passing. I have so many fond memories of yourMom when I was growing up and our families were together many times. I especially remember going to the beach with Dot and my Mom. Not sure if it was more than one summer, but it was often enough for it to be a nice memory. She stayed in our lives much of my adulthood as well. She will be missed. My deepest condolences to all of you.
Jo-Anne Masure
Sandi
Your Mom and i have been good friends our whole lives and always stayed in touch. We have had many many adventures together all these years.
I know the last few months were difficult for her.
Rest in peace my dear friend and you will always be in my heart.