Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Spencer Funeral Home - East Hampton

112 Main Street

East Hampton, Connecticut

Dennis Griswold Obituary

GRISWOLD, Dennis Michael With his wife and soul mate, Gladys Yeager-Griswold at his side and surrounded by his devoted family, Dennis Michael Griswold lost his courageous battle for life on Wednesday (August 27, 2008). His sunny and charismatic personality endeared him to all he met and he leaves numerous loyal friends in shock at his sudden passing. Born February 28, 1948 in Troy, New York, he was the son of Catherine Monty and Paul William Griswold. Besides his wife, he leaves, to weep, his children, Ryan MacLelland Griswold, Johnna Maria and husband James Kulpa, David Moseley MacLelland, Jason Quentin and wife Jennifer MacLelland, Kamey Peterson and Steven Peterson. "Papa" also leaves the "lights of his life," his grandchildren, Richard, Connor, and Brady MacLelland, Victoria and Ethan MacLelland, Jack and Caroline Kulpa, and Bailee and Emilee Ahrens. Dennis was predeceased by his father, Paul William Griswold, and brother, Gary Griswold. He leaves to mourn his loss his sisters, Patricia/Fred Genthner and Kathleen/Carl Seibels, Erin/Bob White, Colleen/Dan Bowen, his brothers Michael/Nancy Griswold, Timothy/Pam Griswold, and Paul Griswold, sister-in-law Sue Griswold as well as many nieces and nephews. Dennis graduated from Lansingburg High School in New York and served his country as a member of the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He graduated from Central Connecticut State University and received his graduate degree as a Mechanical Engineer from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute at Hartford. After completing his education he was employed by United Technologies at Pratt and Whitney Aircraft in East Hartford. When he retired he opened West Shore Marine/The Happiest Paddler in East Hampton. He served as President of The Friends of Lake Pocotopaug, acting as an advocate for his beloved lake. He was also known to his friends and grandchildren as Santa Claus during the holidays, when he and Gladys would arrive at the homes of loved ones as Mr. and Mrs. Claus. All the proceeds from this endeavor were donated to the Easter Seals Camp Hemlocks in Hebron, CT. His family would like to express their thanks for the valiant efforts of the staff of the CCMU at Middlesex Hospital. In lieu of gifts, donations can be made in his memory to The Friends of Lake Pocotopaug. Dennis' family will receive friends at Spencer Funeral Home, 112 Main Street, East Hampton, CT TODAY Friday, August 29, 4-8 p.m. Funeral service will be held at the same location on Saturday, August 30, 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Lakeview Cemetery. To leave online condolences or for directions, please visit www.spencerfuneralhomeinc.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Hartford Courant on Aug. 29, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Dennis Griswold

Not sure what to say?





Steven Lindquist

September 9, 2008

David and Jason,
I am sorry to hear about your father. Time has certainly passed by. Be comforted by all of your family and those friends around you.

Candy Hile

September 9, 2008

Gladys,
If I could take away your pain, I would. If I can make this any easier, I will. Maybe a shoulder to lean on or just someone to sit quietly with to share the beauty of the lake, I will be there, if you want.
Hopefuly knowing that so many people will be sharing the pain and sorrow of your loss will help hold you up in the days ahead.
Your husband will be greatly missed by all who had the luck to know him.

Candy Hile

Gary and Candy Hile

September 9, 2008

For the family of Dennis,
We know there is no way that any words can help your pain at this time. Please know that our thoughts are with you.
Dennis was a shining star in this town and drew people to him with his open smile and friendliness.
He will be greatly missed.

With our deepest sympathy,
Gary and Candy Hile
East Hampton

Paula & Dennis - 2008 Princess of the Lake Boat Parade

Melanie Talbot

September 6, 2008

I have met Dennis at several different times, through several of my friends who kept their boats at the Happy Paddler. Each and every time I was introduced to Dennis, he greated me with a large smile. Even though he never knew me outside of the marina, he always welcomed me and made me feel at home. The very last time that I saw Dennis, was a few weeks ago at the Princess of the Lake boat parade and again he welcomed me and my family with a warm heart. Dennis you will truly be missed. Your genuine warmth and compassion will forever be in my heart! Every time I see the lake, I will think of you.

Your friend Melanie.

Attached is a photo of my friend Paula Bosco with Dennis at the 2008 boat parade. Even in his photo, his personality shows and shins! We love you Dennis!

April Sinclair

September 4, 2008

Gladys & family,
I only had the pleasure to meet Dennis a few times and each time I did he greeted me with his wonderful smile and amazing personality. He has touched so many lives.
Please accept my deepest sympathy to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sincerely,
April Sinclair

Donna Daigle

September 2, 2008

Gladys and Family;
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May knowing that many people care bring you comfort during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Dana Flanagan

September 2, 2008

I first met Dennis at the Happiest Paddler where I have rented Kayaks in the past. He was such a warm and friendly person. It seemed like everywhere I would go in town, I would run into him- whether it be at Governors, or Angelicos. He would always say "hows it going kiddo?" I most recently saw him a few weeks ago when I stopped by to inquire about a slip for next year. Needless to say, I was shocked with disbelief when I heard the news of his passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to Gladys & Kamey and the rest of his family.

Carolyn Forst

September 2, 2008

Gladys,
Deepest sympathy to you for your beloved Dennis. You and He have inspired many with your shared and terrific joy. Call anytime if I can help you in anyway.
Carolyn Forst

Lisa Seymour

September 2, 2008

Gladys,
Please accept my deepest sympathy to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sincerely,

Linda Horan

September 1, 2008

To the Family and Friends of Dennis,

We were so lucky to have taken a boat ride one beautiful night with Capt. Gris. His love of the lake passed onto to all of us and we feel as if we lost a good friend. That's how Dennis made us feel the few times we met him. He was taken away to soon, but East Hampton will never forget him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.

Linda and Gerald Horan
Friends of Amston Lake

Alison Rawlinson

September 1, 2008

To Dennis' Family,

I know I have not formally met all of you, but I have lived in East Hampton for a year and often have rented kayaks from the Happiest Paddler with my family and friends. When I first heard of Dennis' passing I was overcome with disbelief and sadness. The very first time I spoke to Dennis I was immediately impressed by his kind spirit and gentle humor. Each time after that in speaking to him, even though conversations were short I always had a feeling like I was talking to someone special. The last time that I saw him I took my father and father in law from England and my husband Kayaking in July. At first my dad was a bit apprehensive about getting in the kayak because he wasn't very sure of himself in the water, but Dennis was so reassuring to him that it only deepened my respect for him. On behalf of my family who have had the pleasure of meeting Dennis, I would like to express my deepest sympathies for the loss of truly "one of the nicest people we have ever met".

With love,
Alison Rawlinson
East Hampton

Paula Bosco

August 31, 2008

There are rare times in peoples lives when you cross paths with someone who inspires you from the first meeting. Dennis was that special person to me. Although I only knew him for just over a year, it was a time filled with excitement about life, laughing, and teaching and learning lessons. He was a very special person to everyone who knew him. I feel so fortunate and blessed to have been one of those people. Dennis will be missed for always but his goodness will shine through all who knew him. Gladys and family ~ may you be blessed with strength and comfort in knowing how much he loved you all.

Karen Zirkenbach

August 29, 2008

Gladys,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time.
The memories you have shared with Dennis are many and will comfort you as the days and weeks go by.
We will be here as time goes by to ease the pain and bring you comfort.
Much love from,
Karen, Carl, and Karly

Holly Wier

August 29, 2008

Gladys and Family,
While you don't know me, I'm a long-time resident of East Hampton, and I, like everyone else, know you and Dennis. As many have said, Dennis always had a smile on his face and I so enjoyed seeing him in his tug boat leading the Princess of the Lake Parade...I LOVE that tug boat!! Many of my friends knew Dennis by name and he them, and we are all so very shocked and saddened by this tragedy! I know his spirit will always be by his lake and with his family, so we will all know where to find him.
Be strong Gladys...you have so many friends, those you know and those you don't, to help give you strength and support thru this terrible journey you must take. We are all here for you, and Dennis, we all miss you!!

Jennifer Marozzi

August 29, 2008

We are so sorry for your loss. Dennis was truly a special person - his warmth and endearing personality will be missed by so many. We will indeed miss him as Santa this year but I can't wait to tell my children when they're older about what a special man he was and how fortunate they are to have spent some time on his lap. We're thinking of you.
Heath, Jennifer, Maya and Macy Marozzi

Kathy Kozak

August 29, 2008

Gladys,
My heart is breaking for you. Dennis was such a good and kind man. He will truly be missed.
Love,
Kathy

Father Christmas

August 29, 2008

sonia and rob

August 29, 2008

Rob and I send our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Dennis. When we lived in East Hampton Rob's brother Brett had drowned in the lake, Dennis set up a memorial boat ride on the lake for us, he also stopped by our house many times to see how we were doing, he did so much for us, he was truly a good friend, and will be missed tremendously. Gladys we are deeply sorry.

Cheryl McDonald

August 29, 2008

Gladys and Family,
Our hearts go out to you at this difficult time. No words can express our deepest sympathy on the loss of your beloved Dennis.
Dennis & Cheryl McDonald

Dean & Debbie Markham

August 29, 2008

Gladys & family: Like everyone in East Hampton, we were shocked to hear of Dennis passing. It was only a few short weeks ago that he was leading the boat parade with you and your beautiful grandchildren following close behind in the "swan boat. Even in his passing he continues to teaches us all a lesson - never take life for granted and always live it to its fullest everyday. That is what he did. I cannot remember a time that we did not see him with a smile on his face, a handshake for the guys and a kiss for the ladies. The town that he so loved and his many friends will miss him. With our love, support and sympathy

Robin Condon

August 29, 2008

Gladys and Family
We are so sorry for your loss. He will be with you always when you feel the wind on your face or you hear a birdsong from afar.

Sincerely
Robin and Bob Condon
( Jim Carey's Family)

Here's to a wonderful dad, great husband, good friend, and a perfect human being- Cheers Dennis!

Kerri Leonardo

August 29, 2008

My dear friends Gladys, Kamey, Steven, Bailee & Emilee;
Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Dennis was such a kind hearted person. His smile and charm will surely be missed.
With love,
Kerri & Roger

Jerry Nicholas

August 29, 2008

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Dave & Sharon Lewis

August 29, 2008

We will miss your friendly smile and hardy handshake when ever we ran into you in town Dennis. May your spirit forever gurad the lake.

Mark and Denise Nowakowski

August 29, 2008

Gladys, Kamey & Steve,
Our deepest sympathy goes out to you. We are still in shock over Dennis' passing. He had such a vibrant personality which made everyone smile. His love for life and willingness to help others will be deeply missed. His memory will live forever in your hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Matthew & Tina Lanzi

August 29, 2008

Gladys, Kamey, Steven and all of Dennis' family,
Dennis was such a wonderful person and will be missed by so many.
God bless you as you find comfort and healing in all of your wonderful memories with him.
With deepest sympathies,

Gerald Skolnick

August 29, 2008

I was shocked to hear of Denny's passing. We worked together at P&W East Hartford for many years. My condolences to his large family.

August 29, 2008

Linda Paine

August 29, 2008

Two weeks ago Dennis and I were talking by the road side at the marina. I was amazed that every other car driving by honked to him in greeting. Dennis remarked that his arm gets so tired he needs a mechanical one that will just keep waving hello.
Everyone who honked when they saw his happy face will miss him indeed. We miss him already.

Linda and George Paine

Christopher Blish

August 29, 2008

Gladys, Family, and Friends
Today we mourn and celebrate one truly amazing man. What can you say about Dennis, I could write a book. From the first time I met Dennis I knew he was going to change my life. He did, in ways he never even knew he was. I looked up to Dennis, the same way I do Gladys.
Gladys my sympathy goes out to you at this very difficult time. It will take time to heal the heart, it will take time to lesson the pain you feel, but know that I am here for you along with many, many others.
We all have something to share about Dennis, some story that we will keep in our heart forever.
Mine is when I would be called on to bartend the Dames on the deck or Christmas party. Dennis would torment me that he hired a second rate bartender, his grandkids could do better. He never let it go, once and a while throwing in a comment that sounded somewhat nice. At the end of the party I got my just reward when he gave me a hug and send thanks.
Dennis I sit here at the airport waiting to fly back to CT to see Gladys and everybody else and I am shedding a tear. Life will never be the same, but your memory will live on forever.
My love goes out to you Gladys and the Family, and know we will all help you get through this.

Showing 1 - 30 of 30 results

Make a Donation
in Dennis Griswold's name

Memorial Events
for Dennis Griswold

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Spencer Funeral Home - East Hampton

112 Main Street, East Hampton, CT 06424

How to support Dennis's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Dennis Griswold's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more