Robert Lawrence Dence, Jr

Robert Lawrence Dence, Jr., age 77, of Sandy Pond, New York, passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Upstate University Hospital, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Robert was born on August 3, 1947, in Syracuse, New York, to Robert Lawrence Dence, Sr. and Delores May (York) Dence. He was raised in Clay, New York, and attended Cicero and North Syracuse schools before relocating to Sandy Creek, where he graduated from Sandy Creek Central School in 1966.

Following high school, Robert proudly served in the United States Navy. His service took him to Thailand and later aboard the aircraft carrier USS Coral Sea, where he served as an aircraft mechanic with the 161st Fighter Squadron near Vietnam.

A talented craftsman, Robert worked in construction and was known for his exceptional skills as a carpenter. He later became a union carpenter. He lived for many years in Pulaski, New York, where he raised two children, Tracy Lee Dence and the late Jeffery Lawrence Dence, from his first marriage.

On January 1, 2002, Robert married the love of his life, Bonnie Lee (Weed) Dence. Together, they built a life rooted in community, family, and shared passions.

Robert was a proud and active member of several organizations. He maintained a 52-year continuous membership with the American Legion in Pulaski, NY, and was a life member of V.F.W. Post 8534 in Lacona, NY, since 1998. He also belonged to the Sandy Pond Sportsman Association.

An avid outdoorsman, Robert enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and in his earlier years, hunting and playing softball. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, strong work ethic, and deep love for his family.

Robert is survived by his devoted wife, Bonnie; daughter Tracy (Hector) Tarango of Coppell, TX; stepchildren Edward (Lenore) Scheppard of Sandy Pond, NY, and Kristina (Anthony) Carusone of Sandy Creek, NY. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Lee (Hailey) Tarango, Nico Tarango, Diego Tarango, Amanda (Steven) Zerphey, Tristen (Brittany) Carusone, Edward IV (Madison) Scheppard, Kara (Nick) Thomas, Shane (Tessie) Stoffel, and Sarah (David) Stoffel; as well as numerous great-grandchildren: Roman, Delilah, Vivienne, Jack, Madilyn, Natalie, Maddie, Finn, Ada, Milo, Hunter, and Lily.

In addition, he is survived by his sister Desiree Unnerstall of Belle, MO; brother-in-law John (Judy) Phillips; John Jr. and Brenda Rastley; and sister-in-law Melissa Granger.

Robert was predeceased by his beloved son Jeffery Lawrence Dence, who passed away on December 27, 2021, and his brother-in-law Wayne Unnerstall.

A memorial service will be held at Park United Methodist Church in Pulaski on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with refreshments to follow in the church fellowship hall.

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