Dennis Henretta

DENNIS M. HENRETTA On June 15 2004 as he held the hand of his son D.J. Denny Henretta 56 left the world that he graced with his presence. He is now at peace. He graduated from Buchtel High School in 1966 and attended The University of Akron and The Lorain County Community College. He bravely fought for his country during the Vietnam conflict serving one tour of duty as an Army forward observer in southeast Asia. He was a member of St. Vincent Church. During his youth he worked in the Henretta family Star Markets. For years Denny owned and operated various Mattress Warehouse franchises. Most recently he was employed by the Akron Public Schools as a van driver for special needs children. For the past several years he worked at the Highland Sparkle/Star Market where he will be fondly remembered by many customers as the lottery man. For nearly 23 years Denny actively participated in the spiritual fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous where he helped countless men in their efforts to begin and maintain their sobriety. His uncle Dan Kurchev an AA ''old timer'' set a powerful example for Denny and profoundly influenced his decision to share his experience strength and hope with others. It was in AA that he chose a life of unselfish giving and learned the blessings of unconditional love. He was dedicated to the spiritual principles contained in AA's 12 Steps and is characterized by members of AA as a real winner. He walked like he talked- always going to any lengths to maintain his own sobriety by helping the other alcoholic. Truly he gave of himself by passing on what was freely given to him. Denny will also long be remembered as a Grateful Dead enthusiast. He has one of the largest collections of live concert tapes in this area and he freely shared his love with the ''Dead'' with nearly everyone he met. Now in the Light Denny is survived by his parents John T. and Edna A. Henretta wife Linda son D.J. daughter Stacey (Jim) Hentosz brothers Tom and John and sisters Sally (Sam) Tomlinson Patti (Rob) Keith Beth (Bill) D'Amico and Cathy Henretta. Denny was a devoted grandfather to his daughter Stacey's children Victoria J.J. and Michael. Other survivors include aunts uncles cousins many nieces nephews and grandnieces. What a long strange trip it's been. Keep on Truckin' Denny. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday June 21 2004 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Interment in the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. Friends may call at the Hummel Funeral Home 500 E. Exchange St. on Sunday from 2-7 PM. Memorials may be made to the St Vincent Henretta Scholarship Fund at St Vincent Grade School.