Mrs. Patricia M. "Patty" (DeStante) Dennison

October 29, 1942 - January 14, 2021

UTICA –Mrs. Patricia M. “Patty” (DeStante) Dennison, age 78, peacefully passed away on Thursday, January 14, 2021 in the comfort and dignity of her home surrounded by those who loved her most. Born in Utica on October 29, 1942, Patricia was the daughter of the late Joseph J. “Joe the Barber” and Mary (Belmont) DeStante. Patty’s primary education began at Wetmore St. school and continued on to TR Proctor High School where she graduated with the class of 1961. Always honoring those friendships, she was enthusiastically involved with the Reunion committee and gathered monthly to share special time with the company of good friends. On June 11, 1966 she married Earl Harold Dennison. They shared 44 years blessed with mutual love and good memories. Harold endured health adversities and Patty was always by his side as they faced his challenges together. Always encouraging him and never complaining, she championed him through his obstacles until his passing on December 23, 2010. With a desire to pursue a career in the healthcare profession, Patty enrolled in the Utica School of Practical Nurses, where she earned her New York State credentials as an LPN. Patty began her medical career at St. Elizabeth Hospital in the Labor Delivery/Maternity Department and upon the closing of that unit, she accepted a nursing position in the office of Dr. William Ryan, a job she truly loved. She had an energetic work ethic, and her empathetic nature was evident in the admiration, respect, and sensitivity she had for her patients. She truly enjoyed her calling in life, and she was sad to retire due to her illness. In 2008, Patty was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Never giving up the fight, she pursued every treatment option both near and far…and wished there were more. Patty applied herself to her life’s work as a caregiver of many generations of loved ones. She was kind and welcoming, she enjoyed having company, and her home was open to everyone, every day. It was a lively, happy house, and she always had popcorn ready. A visit to Patty’s always included a “nice cup of coffee”. Patty’s home had an atmosphere that welcomed anyone to do whatever they wished, whether it was to eat, drink, or just gather. She was a remarkable, relaxed hostess. Always up for a new adventure, Patty lived life to the fullest. She enjoyed traveling, especially her many trips with her daughter, Jennifer. They were like “Thelma and Louise” as they set out on driving ventures and visited many places, whether it was a beach, a holy shrine, an outlet center, a parade, fireworks, or out for a meal. She also enjoyed and appreciated the trips to Spain and Italy with her son and daughter-in-law. Patty’s love and good times were shared with extended family, and she so enjoyed them. This past summer they spent a most memorable week at White Lake where she sat by the water, taking everything in. She was so happy to gaze upon all the people that really made her happy. May you hold and cherish a memory you had with Patty, for she never forgot anyone, anytime, or anything. She was a hero in so many people’s lives; whether it was on the home front, at her workplace or any time anyone needed her, her energy was boundless. She was a faithful communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Patty is survived by her daughter Jennifer, her caretaker who gave her heart and soul to her mother’s wellbeing and her son-in-law, Wade Karam; her son, Joseph E. Dennison and daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Docteur; and her cousins, especially acknowledging Nikki, who was like a sister to her and her husband, Anthony Fraccola, Nicole, who held a special place in her heart and affectionately called her “Popeye” and her husband, Taylor Hadsell, John V. Lucarelli who was like a brother to her, and his wife, Marie; John, Jeanna, John, and Lauren Marraffa; and Michael and Debbie Belmont; her best friend from childhood, Maria Bruno; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Fred and Kay Dennison; and a host of friends who became extended family, including: Donna Grippe and Don Kratzenberg, Ondrea and Steve Getz and their children, Carmine, and Ellia who were the sunshine in her life and always brought a smile to her face, and the children of her late friends, Barbara and Andy Laria; Anne Marie, Marie Elana, Andrea, and her godson, Anthony. The family is grateful to Dr. William Ryan, who was not only her employer, but also her doctor, and whom she loved as family. He went above and beyond as physician and friend; Debbie Shorey, her caregiver, whose daily arrival Patty looked forward to, for her companionship and care; Dr. Alicia DeTraglia who helped Patty throughout her fight with cancer; and nurse practitioner Stacy Jaskolka who cared for Patty with compassion. A special note of thanks to Fr. Mark Kaminski for the Lord’s blessing and prayers shared at her home; and Deacon Bill Dischiavo for years of prayers and friendship. The family will honor and commemorate Patty’s life at a private time. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Patty’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday, January 22, 2021 at 11:30 am at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. John Rose. Face masks are required and social distancing and contact tracing will be implemented. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in Patty’s honor may make a contribution to a charity of your choice. The family will escort her privately to her place of rest beside her husband. During this time of social distancing that we are all experiencing, please take a moment to connect with Patty’s family through the “Memories” section of her obituary.