JDRF's mission is to find a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications through the support of research.... moreJDRF's mission is to find a cure for type 1 diabetes and its complications through the support of research. It is also committed to developing new and better treatments that improve the lives of people with type 1 diabetes in the near term and keep them healthy while we advance toward a cure. JDRF’s promise is to progressively remove the impact of T1D from the lives of those living with the disease until it is no longer a threat to them or their families.
Help us celebrate the life of Dennis Roszell. Please use this space to share your memories, stories, photos and thoughts about Dennis. (To post, head to the "Posts" or "Memories & Condolences" section, where you can sign in with your Facebook or Google account, or create an account on this site.)
OBITUARY
Dennis Roszell passed away on August 5, 2020 in Maplewood, NJ. He was a loving husband, father and friend — and was nearly 81 years old. He was a long-time Castro Valley, Calif. resident and recent transplant to Maplewood. While he missed his friends (and the Calif. sun), he enjoyed the small-town feel of Maplewood and its residents — along with the close proximity of his family.Dennis was a lot of things throughout his life. A... see more
Dennis Roszell passed away on August 5, 2020 in Maplewood, NJ. He was a loving husband, father and friend — and was nearly 81 years old.
He was a long-time Castro Valley, Calif. resident and recent transplant to Maplewood. While he missed his friends (and the Calif. sun), he enjoyed the small-town feel of Maplewood and its residents — along with the close proximity of his family.
Dennis was a lot of things throughout his life. A veteran; London resident; photographer; and an accomplished, award-winning businessman. But next to his family, what Dennis loved more than anything were books. He read nearly five a week. This insatiable appetite for knowledge meant he knew a little bit about everything. And that made him one of the best conversationalists you’d ever come across.
A dedicated family-man and friend, he always had wisdom at the ready (although only when asked) and was never judgemental. He let people live their lives, and loved them no matter what.
He is preceded by his wife of nearly 60 years, Sandie; mother, Eva; father, Lawrence; nephew, Rick; and brother-in-law, Doug. He is survived by his children, Jennifer and Matt; four grandchildren; a brother; son-in-law; daughter-in-law; two sister-in-laws; three nieces and countless friends-who-are-like-family.
Due to the pandemic, a ceremony is not currently planned. To remember Dennis, the family asks that you donate to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or the National Alzheimer's Association, and leave your memories and thoughts on this site.
So many memories. Denden will always be in my heart. Thank you Jennifer , Karl and children. Thank you Matt, Jennifer for sharing your Father and Grandfather with me. Denden, until me meet again on the other side. I love you XOXO XOXO
Bob and I were first introduced to Sandie and Dennis through our common bond – the boys! We moved to Castro Valley in 1983 and became neighbors, friends, and baseball fans – we were blessed to have them in our lives. We enjoyed attending their annual... moreBob and I were first introduced to Sandie and Dennis through our common bond – the boys! We moved to Castro Valley in 1983 and became neighbors, friends, and baseball fans – we were blessed to have them in our lives. We enjoyed attending their annual Christmas Eve dinner party, attending an occasional Oakland A’s baseball game together and of course commiserating about the antics of our boys. It was Sandie in those early years that I came to know and love first. It was not until much later that I really grew to know, love, understand and really appreciate Dennis. I helped with their move from their beloved home in Castro Valley to Pleasanton. It was a difficult transition for them, but Dennis was loving and caring, supportive, and helpful. The very definition of a loving husband and friend. We missed having them in the neighborhood but understood the need to move. Then came the move to Maplewood. It was really a blessing despite the cold! Dennis was not a fan of the cold, but he loved being so close to family. It is with deep affection I think about Dennis and am sorry for your loss but I am pretty sure he is happy being back with Sandie. I know the memories of Dennis and Sandie will give you comfort and bring a smile as you think about the precious times you shared in the years you had together. God bless you all and may His peace and abiding love comfort you. We love you all and look forward to a time we can sit and share memories. less
When Kevin and Matthew were 5, Bob and I became friends with Sandie and Dennis because of the boys' friendship. Christmas Eve parties were very special to Bob and me. Dennis was a gracious host with a smile and friendly greeting. Throughout the years,... moreWhen Kevin and Matthew were 5, Bob and I became friends with Sandie and Dennis because of the boys' friendship. Christmas Eve parties were very special to Bob and me. Dennis was a gracious host with a smile and friendly greeting. Throughout the years, Dennis had a quick smile and a gracious greeting, except when he was reading ... then he hardly knew I was in the house! He would reserve a stack of books at the library and pick them up weekly. A voracious reader, for sure. In 1987 our family vacations overlapped in Maui. We had a turkey dinner together. The boys sat at another table, so I'm sharing the photo of the adults. I'm so glad Bob and I got to visit Dennis and Sandie in Maplewood one time. I could tell he had settled into his new environment very well, near his daughter and grandchildren. I do miss the entire family as Castro Valley is far from Maplewood. less
I have known Dennis for almost 50 years. The first time I met Dennis was over lunch at Art's on Broadway in Oakland. From the moment I met Sandie and Dennis I became part of the family. I learned quickly that this was not unusual for they had a way of... moreI have known Dennis for almost 50 years. The first time I met Dennis was over lunch at Art's on Broadway in Oakland. From the moment I met Sandie and Dennis I became part of the family. I learned quickly that this was not unusual for they had a way of making everyone feel welcomed and loved.
Dennis had this soft sentimental side to him. And even though it was always there, it really became apparent later in his life as he became an adoring grandfather and a loving and patient caregiver. Although I had known him for years and were close, we connected even more after Sandie's passing. We had meaningful conversations about how our lives had changed now that we were on our own after so many years. I always looked forward to these conversations; there is something very special about sharing these feelings with someone who knew you when and was on the same path. I only hope I was as comforting to him as he was to me. Miss you already Dennis. less