Dennis Joseph Bastone of Monticello, a retired banker and longtime resident of the area, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at the Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown. He was 76.

The son of the late Frank Bastone and Jean Dilanni Bastone, he was born August 15, 1947 in the Bronx.

He was a good man, generous in spirit and kind at heart. He truly loved his family, showing it in his own unique ways. Dennis always spoke his mind with honesty and conviction; if you needed a straightforward opinion, you could count on him to provide it. A naturally outgoing person, Dennis made friends nearly everywhere he went. Whether it was work, church, or his favorite bakery, he not only made friends but remained friends with anyone as decent and loyal as he was. He loved to tell stories, recounting everything from the extraordinary to the mundane – sometimes more than once.

Though he might not have always admitted it, his love for animals was clear in the way he cared for them. When his children were younger, he found joy in traveling, with the beach holding a special place in his heart. Dennis was also an avid blood donor, a silent hero who likely helped save countless lives over the years. Dennis was a foodie before being a foodie was a thing. He instilled in his children not only a love of food but, more importantly, the ability to cook. Whether it was baking cookies or rolling meatballs, the kids were involved in the kitchen. Thanksgiving was always an extraordinary affair, where he loved to try new side dishes each year. His interest in food is evidenced by shelves of cookbooks and 25,000+ Pinterest pins. His passion for good food brought people together, creating cherished memories around the dining table.

Dennis also loved music. He enjoyed seeing the Rausch Brothers perform and took in many shows at Bethel Woods. He had an impressive record collection and an appreciation for all types of music (except maybe country).

He is survived by his wife: Marilyn Somers Bastone, at home; a son: Joseph Bastone and his wife Sharon, of East Greenville, PA; a daughter Susan Williams and her husband, Isaac, of Singapore; three grandchildren: Jace, Kaitlyn, and Claire; two brothers: Michael Bastone of Monticello and Anthony Bastone and his wife Brenda, of Rome, NY; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Frank and Jean, Dennis was predeceased by a son, Ken.

A memorial gathering was held on Friday, June 7 at the VanInwegen-Kenny Funeral Home, 401 Broadway in Monticello, with a prayer service starting at 6pm. 

Memorial contributions can be made to Monticello Fire Department or a local animal shelter of your choice.

For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com Arrangements are under the direction of the VanInwegen-Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home of Monticello.  For additional information or to send an online condolence, please visit www.kennyfuneralhome.com.