Dennis Eric Bootle

When a hero dies, words fall short. How does one summarize the immensity of a life no one thought could end.

Dennis Bootle was larger than life. It is with profound sadness to announce his passing, on Tuesday, November 26th, 2024, at 77 years old. He was surrounded by his great love, Mary Abraham, cherished daughters Emily Bootle, Suzy Bootle, Mary’s daughter, Jenni McCall; as well as treasured friends: U.S. Marshal Tommy Hurlburt, LCSO Sergeant Bud Hart and wife, Bonnie, Magda Sojka, and Amy Accardi. 

 Dennis Bootle personified courage, dedication, loyalty, and love. If he was needed, he showed up! Likely followed by, “WTF!?,” and a meal after.

 He lived with gusto, loved with passion, ate with relish, chuckled from his belly, and was quick with pride and praise of his children and grandchildren’s achievements. Dennis fiercely respected his mentors, loved catching up with his friends who were brothers to him, not once tired of Blue Bloods and old westerns, and never met a stranger. Trips to the grocery store included time for updates from all. Meals out always meant great service, from meaningful catch-ups with dining-mates, and all staff. Dennis loved sharing the stories of his life; like a lot – on repeat. But heck, they were great stories. 

 In 2008, Dennis and Mary fell fast into an unending love. Not a day went by without, “I love you,” said often. All invitations were met with, “Let me check with Dennis. Let me check with Mary.” They were a unit. For 16 years, if Mary and Dennis were sitting in their matching recliners, they were holding hands - the ones not reaching for wine. She never stopped holding his hand.

 Dennis had a long and esteemed list of titles, but none meant more to him than Pop Pop. His grandchildren Sarah, Ryan, and Connor (Little Man) were his absolute joy. He physically radiated happiness at even the slightest utterance of their names. Dennis was full-up with love and pride for them, the apple of his eye. He cherished time with them, visits, catch ups, dance recitals, sports updates, singing performances, and school news. No detail was too small. 

Dennis’ pride was also boundless for the education and career accomplishments of his daughters, Suzy and Emily Bootle. He also loved that his karate girls kicked ass – literally! Emily was rarely referred to by those five letters. Her name might as well have been, “Smart, talented, accomplished, school counselor Emily who married a great guy, Mike.” Who of course then had the world’s three most perfect children. With the birth of daughter, Suzy, Dennis achieved his profound and completely wanted goal of being a father. He always had a sing-song “oooh” quality in his voice, when speaking of Suzy’s amazing jobs and NYC living.

 Dennis loved his family, friends, work, and his country and was rightfully proud of his accomplishments in law enforcement. His deep love for his brothers and sisters in blue was exemplified in the way in which he carried himself throughout his career. He loved his psychic capabilities. He loved, revered, and deeply respected the Dojo and his karate students. He loved that he was able to contribute truth and knowledge to books, television shows, movies and more. He loved shooting and appreciated guns, swords and weapons for their artistry, while vigilant of their power. He loved a nice Chardonnay, and Dan Fogelberg, and feeding the birds outside his window. 

 His study, training, and service history is a continuous quilt of bravery and distinction. In addition to Dennis’ achievements, as a Karate Master and decorated Vietnam Veteran awarded the Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts; Dennis, the “Cops Cop,” has had a long and storied chronology. Beginning his career as NYPD Transit Officer, Dennis saw a need and developed the Defensive Tactical program in the 1970’s, exponentially increasing officer personal safety. He rose in the ranks, to Sergeant and Detective Sergeant SDS, receiving multiple commendations and awards; including, the Medal of Valor. 

 On 9/11, Dennis was an immediate first responder. So close when one of the towers fell, it blew him into the atrium, knocking him unconscious. When he awoke, Dennis thought he’d died and went to heaven; looking up, at dust dancing in light beams and the fronds of potted palm trees. Dennis supervised evidence collection at Ground Zero, working closely with families, in identifying and returning personal property and remains. From his almost year-long service at Ground Zero, he battled cancer four times and lost his gallbladder. For his frontline leadership he demonstrated at the 9/11 site and morgue, He received the Certificate of Honor.

 Dennis’ blood did truly run blue (aside from the times he was shot when it was indeed red). When Dennis moved to Florida to be with his beloved Mary, who fortuitously lived a town over from his great friend Tommy Hurlburt, both of whom met at the FBI National Academy in 1986, he was an immediate retirement-fail. Dennis joined the Lake County Sheriff's Office in 2012. Focused on cold-cases, his tenure led to multiple arrests, most notably a serial rapist, who evaded capture for 15 years until apprehended due to a Dennis-discovered lead. He received a Service Medal and Sheriff’s Achievement Award. 

Dennis is survived by his partner Mary Abraham; his children, Suzy Bootle, Emily Bootle & husband Michael Edebohls; grandchildren Sarah, Ryan and Connor; Mary’s daughter, Jenni McCall & husband Tim, and their daughter Taylor. Dennis is preceded in death by Mary’s grandson, Jaycob, whom Jenni requested he find on the other side and hug for her. With heavy hearts but immeasurable comfort, for we were lucky enough to know and love him. 

Celebrations of Life Dennis Bootle

Florida 

Harden-Pauli Funeral Home 

1617 South Bay Street, Eustis, FL 32726

Saturday, December 14, 2024

4:00 PM -7:00 PM               Time of Sharing beginning at 5:00 PM

New York

Bourbon Street

40-12 Bell Boulevard, Bayside, New York

Saturday, January 25, 2025

1 – 5PM

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to Lake County Sheriff’s Charities (www.sheriffscharities.com)