Donald T. Denning, Jr.

Donald Thomas Denning Jr., 79, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with a 9/11-related illness.

Donald is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sue Ann; his children, Ann Nora (Michael) and Donald Thomas Denning III (Mary); and his grandchildren, Brody, Kellen, Grant, Rowan, and Donald.

Donald lived a life of service and dedication. He enjoyed a distinguished career as a tugboat captain with Moran Towing Company, earning the respect of colleagues and friends. Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, he played a vital role in the emergency maritime response, helping transport and rescue hundreds of thousands from Lower Manhattan to New Jersey. Donald also served honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam war, rising to the rank of Sergeant.

He will be remembered for his devotion to family, strong work ethic, kindness, humility, and love of country. His legacy of courage, service, and compassion will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Family will receive visitors on Wednesday, June 3rd from 2 - 4:30 p.m. & 7 - 9:30 p.m. at Raynor & D'Andrea Funeral Home 245 Montauk Highway West Sayville. A funeral mass will take place at St. John Nepomucene RC Church in Bohemia on Thursday at 10am. Interment of ashes to follow at Calverton National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Donald's memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation or Visiting Nurse Service & Hospice of Suffolk County.