Dennis Michael Nasella

Dennis Michael Nasella excelled in many roles: he was a CPA, entrepreneur, mentor, coach, and above all, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend. He passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, at the age of 72, in the comfort of his forever home that he built by hand 43 years ago in Sandy, Utah.
Born on August 12, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, Dennis lived a life full of love, family, kindness, meaningful connection, hard work, and unwavering generosity. Born and raised on the southeast side of Chicago, he was the fourth of six children in a proud working-class family. As a young boy, Dennis developed his strong work ethic through observing his parents, a paper route and ultimately graduating from St. Francis De Sales Catholic School as senior class Treasurer.
An exceptional all-around athlete, Dennis earned a baseball scholarship to USIU Cal-Western. As one of the team's leading hitters, he led his team to victory in the NAIA National Championship in 1972. His talent extended beyond the baseball field– his coaches recognized his skill with his hands and recruited him as the soccer team's goalie.
After graduating college with his degree in Accounting, he ventured away from his roots and moved to Salt Lake City, Utah to pursue his career with various businesses. Dennis shared a love of tennis with his wife, Corinne. The two met on the court and won many mixed-doubles tournaments throughout the years together. At the top of his game, Dennis reached a USTA 5.5 rating. He carried his love for the game throughout his life and passed it on by coaching and mentoring others.
Deeply patriotic, Dennis loved his country and held strong values of hard work, integrity, and faith. His sharp mind and love for numbers defined his career, but to him, work was never just a job-it was a way to connect, serve, and inspire others. He was extremely competitive in all he did. Dennis was known for his signature sayings, we're calling "Dennisisms":
• "Oh, I don't know " (right before solving any math problem).
• "It's 'I'm doing well,' not 'doing good.'"
• "Don't get old. If I get too old, don't put me in a home, just put me out of my misery."
• "Never quit."
• "Never say never."
• "Perfect practice makes perfect."
• "Everyday you don't practice, someone else is getting better than you."
He also gave simple yet wise financial advice: "Save."
In 2000, Dennis joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shortly after the birth of his youngest daughter, a faith that brought him lasting peace and purpose. He approached life with an abundance mindset, always willing to give selflessly to others. He cherished being present for his children, never missing a game, practice, or tournament, even if it took going across the world. Whether it was soccer, basketball, or tennis, Dennis often volunteered as an assistant coach, happy to lend a helping hand.
A true sports enthusiast, Dennis loved baseball, soccer, golf, tennis, basketball, and football. He was a Cubs and Bears fan till the end along with many Utah based teams such as the Jazz, Utes, and Brighton Bengals. He shared his passion for sports with his family, spending hours rebounding basketballs, watching and coaching practices, and taking each of his children golfing. He also loved cycling and mountain biking, hobbies that complemented his active lifestyle.
Dennis's passions extended beyond sports. He was a coin and baseball card collector, and he kept countless sentimental mementos, including tickets, newspapers, and handwritten notes tied to his family and the games he loved. He adored classic rock-especially the Eagles and the Beatles-and his children fondly remember rocking out to "Hotel California" on road trips.
A man of routine, Dennis was known for his stylish mustache, thick wavy dark brown hair, and his consistency-he bought multiple pairs of identical blue jeans and black Nikes to wear daily. Dennis was also a man that loved his western movies including all the John Wayne hits. He had a sweet tooth for chocolate malts, peanut M&Ms, and a cold Mexican Coke. His favorite meal was always spaghetti with marinara and meatballs.
Dennis is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Corinne Chatterton Nasella, and his parents, James and Ruth Nasella. He is survived by his three children: Rachel (David) Price, Michael Nasella, and Kaitlin Nasella; and his five grandchildren: Kearon, Desmond, Winston, Roan Price, and Navian Nasella. As well as his five siblings: Jim (Sharon), Phyllis, David, Larry (Joyce), and Pauline (Mark) and many loved nieces and nephews.
Dennis lived his life as a man of integrity, humor, and heart. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, and in the words of one of his favorite quotes: "You've only got three choices in life: Give in, give up or give it all you've got!."
He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.
Funeral Services: A viewing will be held on Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, Utah. A second viewing will take place on Monday, December 16, 2024, from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Willow Creek Second Ward, Alta Canyon Chapel, 2400 East Alta Canyon Drive, Sandy, Utah. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. Graveside services at Larkin Sunset Gardens,1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, Utah to follow the funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that each of you get regular health checks and heart scans!