Obituary of Evelyn E. Dennis

Evelyn was born in 1927 to Elva and Adolf Thuman of North Evans, NY. She had a brother, Nelson and a sister, Leona. For much of her childhood, they lived on Green Street in Eden, NY. It was there that she met her future husband, Merle Dennis, who bet his friend a nickel he could get her to dance. They soon became an item, but went their separate ways while he served in the United States Navy, in WWII, in the Pacific Theater. Soon after his return, Merle stole her heart again, and they married on June 14, 1947. They continued to live in Eden where they began a family of their own; Sandra Lee, Bryon, and Wayne. After a short time in East Aurora they moved to Merrit Island, FL, in 1959 where Merle was a brick-layer and helped to build Cape Canaveral, while Evelyn busied herself with their children and homemaking. They remained in Florida until 1967, when they returned to East Aurora. They returned to the Buffalo area in 1979, to be closer to family, and resided on Loretta in the Town of Tonawanda. They enjoyed social outings and continued one of their favorite pastimes in dancing. Evelyn was certainly grateful for her son-in-law Jerry and her daughter-in-law Raydene, and was especially fond of her grandchildren, Timothy (Kari), Michael, and Kelly Marie, and her great-grandchildren, Clay (5) and Isla Olivia (2). She was also very excited for a third great-grandchild expected in May of next year. Her love and kindness abounded when she spent time with them. She also loved to see Kayla Mae (4) and Marissa Lee (2), her extended family. One of Evelyn's greatest loves was for animals. Her heart swelled for all furry creatures and especially family pets. More often than not, one of the dogs or cats would be curled up with her for her loving touch. During her later life, she enjoyed listening to the magical sounds of the piano played by her dear friend Frank. She met him as a resident of her senior apartment, where she participated in activities and bible study and made many wonderful friends. Evelyn touched the lives of many people, and will surely be remembered for her gentle and kind heart. Memorial service will be held Nov. 12, 2011 at 11AM in the Laing Funeral Home. Inc 2724 W. Church St. Eden Memorials may be made to the Erie County SPCA 205 Ensminger Road Tonawanda, NY 14150