Denise Lynn Staples

Denise Lynn Staples, 72, a resident of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2023 after a two year battle with ALS.

Denise was preceded in death by her parents Catherine and Ronald Thoms, sister, Kathyann Loch, brother in laws Nick Ferrara, Jeff Cornell and Phil Loch, niece Sydney Zaleski and nephew Robert Zaleski.

Denise leaves behind her most treasured gift, son Joe (Thomas Wucherer) Staples, unconditional bestie of almost 70 years, Dawn (Bob) Pollard, devoted sisters Colleen Cornell (Dennis Blanchard), Robin Ferrara, Sandy (John) Ferrara, Lisa (Kevin) Zaleski, her "was-band" Rick Staples, adoring nieces and nephews Ryan (Jeannette) Cornell, Samantha (Michael) Wilker, Cassie (Anthony) Bosco, Andrew (Emily) Ferrara, Catie Ferrara, Autumn Pizana (Steve Shoulders), Kendra (Bill) Davidson, Sara (Zack) Michaels, Tony Ferrara, Zachary Zaleski, her doting "greats" George, Alexis, Sloan, Drake, Bennett, Palmer, Sienna, Savannah, Gavin, Everleigh, Israel, Isabella, Brennan, Keegan, Cullen, and many, many dear friends.

Denise lived a life of purpose and made a tremendous impact on everyone she knew. It didn't matter if you only met her once or knew her for her entire life; she was simply unforgettable, one of a kind. Denise's larger than life personality kept you in stitches, her selflessness kept you grateful and inspired and her unwavering loyalty to those she loved kept you in awe.

Denise dedicated her whole life to helping others; strangers, friends, co-workers, and family alike, she literally had everyone's back. She was the first person to roll up her sleeves and get elbows deep in whatever you were going through, no questions asked. Denise had the mouth of a sailor, a heart of gold and the strength of an ox. She had the ability to make you feel special, welcomed and accepted. Denise saw the good in you even when you didn't see it in yourself and could lift you up with an encouraging pep talk. Make no mistake, her kind and compassionate side equally matched her tough and protective side. She was a straight shooter and you knew better than to cross her or the ones she loved.

Denise loved an ice cold Natty Lite, singing and dancing to Motown hits, palm trees and sunshine, a fierce competitor in Rummikub, any chance to make someone laugh, her family and above all, her boys. Joe was her greatest accomplishment and nothing brought her more joy than his happiness, success and the love he found with Thomas.

The last two years of her life were spent fighting a devastating ALS diagnosis, and boy did Denise fight until the very end. Although she eventually lost control of her body and her voice, she never lost her sense of humor or trademark personality, and kept everyone smiling in the midst of her struggle. In what world does the one who everyone depended on become the one who was forced to depend on others? Although Denise was more comfortable doing the care-taking, her family was honored to bring it full circle and hold her hand every step of the way until her very last breath.

While the loss of Denise leaves us all broken hearted, we know she'd be telling us to wipe our tears and celebrate her life. So cheers to our beautiful, blue- eyed Denise, you are so loved and may you finally rest easy.

Memorials may be made in Denise's name to The ALS Association. For further information please go to als.org/donate