Dennis William Degrass

Dennis W. DeGrass, 61 of Matunuck, R.I. passed away on Tuesday, January 24, 2012, at his home with his wife Louise by his side. He was a loving husband to Louise M. (Sarni) DeGrass for more than 36 years, and a devoted father to Derek DeGrass and his wife Lisa of Hingham, MA, Daniel DeGrass of Los Angeles, CA and Stacia DeGrass of Warwick, R.I. He was the beloved grandfather of Olivia DeGrass. He also leaves behind 7 nieces and nephews who have fond memories of their special times together. He was born in Providence, R.I. and was the son of Charles DeGrass and the late Minnie ( Horowitz ) DeGrass of Warwick, R.I. As a young man, he earned the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout. He was a graduate of Pilgrim High School and the University of Rhode Island. For ten years, he taught English and theatre at LaSalle Academy and Narragansett High School. From 1975-1988 he also worked as an agent in real estate and he bought Wallander Realty, Ltd. in 1989. As owner/broker of his company for 21 years, Mr. DeGrass loved real estate and interactions with all people. In 1992-1993 he served as President of the Washington County Board of Realtors. He built his home and lived with his family in Matunuck since 1985. He was a generous supporter of the Matunuck Community Association and served on its Board for many years. In appreciation for his many contributions, Dennis was awarded one of MCA's Distinguished Citizen's Awards in 2007. Whether at home in Matunuck, R.I. or in Naples, FL, Dennis loved to cook and grill for his friends and family. He enjoyed vacations with all of them and looked forward to golfing, boating, fishing and swimming. Additionally, one of his favorite pastimes was playing guitar, listening to all types of music and dancing with the ladies. Dennis was a kind, generous, fun-loving person who touched many lives. He never had a bad word to say about anyone, was a friend to all, and will forever be remembered. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 10:00 AM at Christ the King Church, Kingston and may call at the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia Street, Wakefield on Friday, January 27, 2012, 3-7 PM. Burial will be in New Fernwood Cemetery, Kingston. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations may be made in his memory to The Matunuck Community Association, c/o Fran Fitzpatrick, 150 North Weeden Road, Wakefield, R.I. 02879, or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research at Michael J. Fox.org or mail to The Michael J, Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, Attention: Tribute Gifts, Church Street Station, PO Box 780, New York, New York 10008-0780.