Dennis C. Cater

Dennis C. Cater, 84, of Whitesboro, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Born on July 14, 1940, in Rochester, NY, Dennis was the son of Edward and Zylpha (Spooner) Cater. He was a graduate of New Hartford High School, Class of 1958 and continued his education at Hartwick College. On August 19, 1961, Dennis married the love of his life, Judy M. Slawson, at Tabernacle Baptist Church. Together, they shared a devoted and loving union of 63 years. Dennis was the proud owner and operator of Dennis Cater Auto Sales in Utica, a business he built through years of dedication and hard work. Prior to that, he owned and operated Cater Lincoln Mercury with his three brothers. Dennis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose love for life was felt by everyone who knew him. He cherished his summer trips to Ogunquit, Maine with his wife Judy, always dreaming up where he could take her next. An early riser and a natural conversationalist, Dennis was known for his endless stream of questions-a unique way of connecting that often had his family lovingly warning others to be ready. His greatest passion was classic and muscle cars, especially Fox Body Mustangs, which he bought and sold with tireless enthusiasm. He made frequent trips to Carlisle, Pennsylvania for their Spring, Fall, and Ford shows, and was a dedicated fan of NHRA drag racing. Dennis lived with energy, curiosity, and deep affection for those around him-he will be dearly missed. Surviving besides his beloved wife, Judy are his daughter and son-in-law, Kim and Keith Hatzinger, New Hartford; son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Tricia Cater, Whitesboro; cherished grandchildren, Michael and Kait Hatzinger and Jessica and Spencer Cater; siblings, John (Diane) Cater, South Carolina, Carolyn (Joe) Mascaro, Deansboro and Ted (Chris) Cater, New Hartford. Dennis also leaves many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, David and his wife, Joan Cater. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Monday, July 21 from 3 to 5 p.m. at McGrath, Myslinski, Kowalczyk & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Road, Utica. A funeral service will commence at 5 p.m. immediately following visitation. In lieu of flowers, please consider a remembrance in Dennis' name to CABVI (www.cabvi.org). Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. The Cater family extends their heartfelt gratitude to NY State Trooper Rob Maisano and Investigator John Nigro, for their compassion and support during this difficult time. Messages of sympathy at www.mmknfd.com To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Dennis, please visit our Tree Store.