Denis Michael Craft

Denis Michael Craft, a very proud United States Marine Corps veteran who served in the Gulf War, passed away peacefully in the loving arms of his wife, Bernadette Conway-Craft on May 27th, 2023.  It is only fitting his passing occurred on Memorial Day Weekend.

Denis was one of a kind, a true man.  If he loved you, he loved you with his whole heart and would do anything to protect you from harm.  You would however be subjected to his quick wit, pranks, jokes and sarcasm. Denis loved to make others laugh and was always ready to have a good time.   He had an infectious laugh and a devilish smile that got him out of trouble more than once. 

Denis is preceded in death by his mother Theresa Nicolosi (nee Catcher), and his father John Craft.  In addition to his wife, Bernadette he is survived by the man that raised him as his own, Anthony Nicolosi.  Denis is also survived by his extended in-law family (that he referred to as the outlaws), mother-in-law Bernadette Conway, sister in-law Mary-Ellen Freyre, brother-in-law Daniel Conway and his wife Diane, sister-in-law Peggy Gillespie and her husband Plunkett, sister-in-law Kathleen Squilla and her husband Rick, brother-in-law Patrick Conway and his wife Stacy as well as nine nieces and nephews.  Denis is also survived by his sister, Denise Forman and her family.  Denis also leaves behind his fur babies that he adored; Shea, Reagan, Toonces and Spunky.

Denis was part of many families, including his high school family, work family, football family and dearest of all, his Marine Corps family.  Denis served his country proudly, earning the rank of Corporal as a member of the MALs 31 Unit.  The love of the Marine Corps and the men he served with, especially Cooter, Dennis, Kaz, Ski and Sammy, would continue to influence Denis throughout his entire life.  Denis was a warrior, a loyal friend, and a hard-working man of integrity.  His near lifelong friends, particularly John and Chris could attest to those traits.

Denis’ wife has been left heartbroken at the loss of her husband.  Denis and Bernadette shared a bond and a love that could never be broken.   During good days and bad, they were always together, laughing, and cracking jokes at one another’s expense.  Those that knew them as a couple would always say they were perfectly matched.  The love they shared in the time they had together will stay with his wife for a lifetime.  They were truly the loves of each other’s lives. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Denis’ honor to Paws of War (DONATE TODAY — Paws of War), an organization dedicated to support active military members, veterans and animals.

Visitation- Wednesday May 31, 2023 from 3:00 - 9:00 p.m. at our West Sayville Funeral Home, 245 Main St.

Funeral Mass- Thursday June 1, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Lawrence RC Church, Sayville

Interment- Calverton National Cemetery