Dennis J Smith

Dennis J. Smith, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2024, in his home in Watkins Glen, NY, with Leslie, his loving wife of 50 years, by his side. Born on December 23, 1953, in Hornell, NY, Dennis lived a life filled with love, happiness, and joy. While raising a family and working, he and his wife also enjoyed raising and showing Shetland Sheepdogs for over 40 years. 

Dennis earned his Associate's Degree in Electrical Engineering from Alfred State, and then began his engineering career at Sear Brown in Elmira, NY, where he worked for many years. He then moved to Tetra Tech, Inc in Ithaca, NY where he excelled as a Senior Electrical Engineer and became highly respected for his work on projects spanning multiple continents. His knowledge and skills were sought after by numerous partners within the field.

Throughout his life, Dennis was an active member of several clubs. He was a member and past president of the Finger Lakes Kennel Club, and Central NY Shetland Sheepdog Club, and a  member of the Elmira Kennel Club, and the American Shetland Sheepdog Association. Dennis also served as an area coordinator for the Guiding Eyes for the Blind, and an instructor for the Schuyler County Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Dog Pack. Additionally, Dennis was a past member of the Dundee Flying Club, holding a pilot's license, and where he and his family enjoyed many fly-in breakfasts on Memorial and Labor Days.

Dennis was an active family man, and dear friend to many. His charming and joking personality shone through in all interactions, and his big smile and laugh were contagious. His commitment to those he loved was evident. and he cherished his marriage to Leslie. His mischievous eye twinkle will be missed, but will remain in memories.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife Leslie; sons Jeremy Smith (Cheyenne Wells) of Savona, NY and Bradley Smith (Bethany Brown), of Watkins Glen, NY; brother Roger (Joanne) Smith of Apalachin, NY, sister Diane (Robert) Davison of Cocoa Beach, FL, and grandchildren Amanda, Emily, Zoey, Emma, Kimberly, Liam, and Ewan. He is predeceased by parents Dean and Margaret Smith, and brother Duane Smith. 

A visitation and memorial service to honor Dennis J. Smith's life will be held on May 4th, 2024 at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home in Watkins Glen, NY. The visitation will begin at 11:00 AM followed by the memorial service at 1:00 PM.

Memorial donations may be made in his memory to CareFirst NY Hospice of Steuben County or American Cancer Society.