Denise Ann Grant, 60, went to fly with the angels surrounded by her family and friends on September 2, 2017. Born in Endicott, to the late Gerald E. and Alethea M. (Tuttle) Grant on November 17, 1956, she is also predeceased by her husband (and companion in adventure) Michael Bashta.   Surviving are her siblings, Gerald (Sue Connelly) Grant, Robert (Debi) Grant, Craig Grant and Lisa (Tim) Watson.   She is also survived by her loving children Dennis Grant, Misty Bongiorno, Christian (Viola) Bongiorno, numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and a large extended family.  She was a beloved “Grans” to Adrian and Maya Bongiorno, who were the light of her life.  She adored all children and was an amazing mother figure to too many children to list. 

Also surviving are her lifelong friends, Paulette Kitchen, Joe Langevin and Maryann Heath as well as her furry kids, Lady and Uma.

Denise was a woman of resilience and great fortitude who became the matriarch of our family after caring for her parents in their final days.  Also a staunch human rights activist, she gave a voice to the voiceless and fought and protested for equality and justice; condemning hatred and intolerance in words and deeds.  

Denise was a renaissance woman and a jack of all trades.  As a single mother of three;  she managed to graduate college and earn a place on the President’s list, all while supporting her family in various traditional roles.   Her pioneering spirit then led her into the trades where she worked as a licensed electrician for many years.  She was a master at the art of crochet and her works are donned by and decorate the homes of friends and family everywhere.   She was known for her wicked sense of humor facing every day and every challenge with a sharp, irreverent wit.  Denise was an inspiration and a beacon of hope to us all.  She will be dearly missed.

The family is deeply grateful to the Lourdes ICU staff for their compassionate care and for giving us a little more precious time. At her request, there will be a private family celebration of her life.  If your life was touched by Denise and you wish to honor her memory, please consider donating to the humanitarian charity of your choice… and for the love of God, just be kind to one another.  Peace. 

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