Obituary of Dennis J. Sweeney

Dennis Sweeney Dennis Sweeney, 74, passed away Thursday, May 5, 2016 at his home on Seneca Lake, NY. Family, Friends, and Fellow Fire Fighters are welcome to attend a celebration of Dennis' life on Sunday, May 15, 2016 at Belhurst Castle in 4069 W Lake Rd, Geneva, NY 14456 from 1:00-5:00 pm, with a ceremonial tribute beginning at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Retired Professional Fire Fighter's Cancer Fund, 4 Loretta Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905. Dennis was born March 10, 1942 in Elmira, NY, to Clarence and Madeline (Meade) Sweeney. He graduated from Elmira Southside High School in 1961. He earned an associate's degree in Business Administration and Fire Technology from Corning Community College, a bachelor's degree in History from Elmira College and a master's in Education from Elmira College. Dennis joined the Elmira Fire Department in 1968. He spent 36 years at the department before his retirement in 2004. For the past 16 years he was the New York State Professional Fire Fighter Association's Health and Safety Coordinator. He served on the Elmira Fire Department's Labor/Management Committee, was the Employee Assistance Program representative, held an appointment to the Chemung County Local Emergency Planning Committee, served as the International Association of Fire Fighter's health and safety representative for New York and New Jersey, and was coordinator of the Fire Protection Technology Program at Corning Community College. Dennis held several positions with the New York State Professional Fire Fighters Association including Vice President of the Fourth District, Health & Safety Committee member, and his most recent position of Health & Safety Coordinator. He loved travel and socializing with countless friends and relatives, especially with his loving wife Bonnie by his side. There were always many laughs and memorable stories when Denny was in the room. He was known for his quick-witted teasing of others and continual humorous antics. Throughout his life, he was an avid reader, music enthusiast, and enjoyed playing, coaching, and watching sports. Dennis is survived by his wife of 52 years, Bonnie; 3 sons, Brian (Priscilla) Sweeney; Michael (Tara) Sweeney; and John (Nicole) Sweeney; 4 grandchildren, Ryan Sweeney, Erin Sweeney, Nina Huang, and Lauren Huang; 3 brothers, Martin, Timothy, and Paul (Maureen) Sweeney; 2 sisters, Michaeline Sweeney and Kathy (Brian) Meck and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many caring friends. Arrangements were entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home 36 Water St. Dundee, NY. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.