Dennis Leo Wilcott, III

Dennis Leo Wilcott, III of Amherst, NY peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of January 12, 2024. He was comforted by his loved ones during his last days and up until his time of passing. Beloved husband of the late Judy (nee Kerling); devoted father of the late Wendy Gutowski and the late Mark (Renee) Cifelli; grandfather of four and great grandfather of seven; loving son of the late Dennis Leo and Arlene Wilcott, II; dear brother of Darrel (Sharon) Wilcott and the late Sharon Lee Wilcott; fond brother in law of Richard (Dorothea) Kerling; also survived by many loving family and friends.

Dennis was a talented athlete who enjoyed running track and playing tuba in the marching band at Kensington High School. Dennis was a proud 35 year Navy Seabee having completed two tours in Vietnam and retired as a Senior Master Chief. His dedication to his service is more than admirable and he would share stories of his friends and time in service throughout his lifetime, while also continuing those relationships with his military brothers to continue honoring the many sacrifices of all those that served. Dennis made a career as building inspector for the Town of Amherst from which he retired and enjoyed his time in the company of his family and close friends.

Dennis adored his late wife, Judy and made every effort to fill the void after her passing and become more of an anchor in the lives of all the grandchildren with his presence, support, humor and love. He honored Judy daily and worked hard to keep his smile going for the rest of the family. He built personalized toy boxes for each of his grandchildren to cherish throughout their lives. His woodworking was impeccably and beautifully crafted or restored. He was kept busy with all of the school programs to attend and athletics to support his great grandchildren. To see them brought a bright light of joy to his blue eyes. He would never forget to wear his Yankees shirt on game days, sing songs he remembered as a child, or show up with all his tools for anyone at any time to solve any problem.

Dennis would spend his free time hunting or fishing with his buddies and enjoyed retelling stories from those trips and the camaraderie. Unfortunately a femur break a couple of years ago changed the trajectory of his life, but his persistence to hold on to hope was contagious to witness.

Relatives and friends may visit Beach Tuyn Funeral Home, 1671 Maple Road, Williamsville, NY on Monday January 22 from 4 – 7PM. Interment at Acacia Park Cemetery, North Tonawanda Tuesday at 10AM. Please assemble at the chapel where a prayer service will be held. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Dennis’ memory to stjude.org/donate. Dennis would greet you with a smile and a compliment, had a hardy laugh and always a story to tell with an I love you at goodbyes. He will be greatly missed. Online condolences may be made at BEACHTUYNFH.COM