Dean Allen Plenzio

Dean Allen Plenzio, 69, of Niantic, peacefully passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at Hartford Hospital after a brief illness. Born in Hartford on April 14, 1956, a son of the late Anthony J. and Carolyn (Leggett) Plenzio, he had been a resident of Niantic for many years. Dean was a graduate of Bulkeley High School in Hartford, class of 1974, and earned his bachelor’s degree in science from Central Connecticut State University. Prior to his retirement in 2014, he was employed by United Parcel Service (UPS) on Ledyard Street, Hartford for many years. Dean was an avid outdoorsman who liked to fish, hunt, and walk Rocky Neck State Park daily. He also enjoyed cooking and preparing meals for his family and friends.

Dean is survived by his sister, Toni Jean Monarca; his brother, Mark Plenzio and his wife Peggy; two nieces, Melissa Gibson and her husband Earl, Stacey Digiovanni and her husband Henry; three nephews, Anthony Plenzio, Erik Plenzio, Tyler Plenzio; his Aunt Rose Plenzio; several cousins, former co-workers, and dear friends. In addition to his beloved parents, Dean was predeceased by two brothers, Gary Plenzio and Perry Plenzio; and a nephew, Zachary Plenzio.

Honoring Dean’s wishes, private funeral service and burial will be held at the convenience of his family. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dean’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the physicians, physician assistants, and all the nursing staff at Hartford Hospital for their compassionate care of Dean. The D’Esopo East Hartford Memorial Chapel, 30 Carter Street, East Hartford has been entrusted with the care of the funeral arrangements. For on-line expressions of sympathy to the family, please visit www.desopoeh.com