In August 2026, Humane Colorado mourned the loss of one of our most generous and longtime supporters, Fred Bartlit. For over two decades, he and his wife, Jana, poured their boundless energy, insight, and compassion into our organization, ensuring countless animals across Colorado have the chance to thrive and experience love.
After Jana was elected to our Board of Directors in 2002, Fred, who shared his wife’s deep devotion to animals, joined her in support of our mission. Together, they underwrote our first mobile spay/neuter vehicle in 2007, affectionately named the Lulu Mobile after their beloved dog, Lulu. This gift allowed Humane Colorado (then the Dumb Friends League) to provide greater access to community veterinary care, a service that has become increasingly critical and remains essential to our work today.
Lulu’s special place in her family’s hearts was demonstrated time and again, most notably in the annual event Fred and Jana proudly chaired for nearly 20 years: Lulu’s BBQ. Often hosted at their lovely home in Castle Pines Village, the event raised millions of dollars through the Bartlits’ warm hospitality and keen ability to attract and inspire well-known musical performers. More than a fundraiser, “Lulu’s” was a date guests circled on their calendars, a celebration they looked forward to all year. Its remarkable impact has continued to create hope and open doors for generations of animals and the people who love them.
Additionally, Fred and Jana helped ensure the successful renovation of Humane Colorado’s Leslie A. Malone Center in 2017. Through our $43.5 million “Building a Better Way Home” capital campaign, major donations from the Bartlits and other supporters went toward upgrading our shelter veterinary suite, improving dog kennels and communal cat rooms, building dedicated spaces for behavioral support, and creating new pet admissions and transfer facilities. Several conference rooms and gathering spaces at our Denver shelter are also named in honor of Lulu – perhaps you’ve seen them.
“It is difficult to imagine where our organization would be without Fred and Jana Bartlit,” said our President and CEO, Katie Parker. “Because of their incredible support and forward-thinking approach, we’ve been able to expand our services to meet the growing needs of our communities. Our deepest sympathies are with Jana and their loved ones. We will always be grateful for their friendship.”