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Dennis "Denny" Paul Pattison, 76, of 422 Allen St., Titusville died on Friday, May 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Prior to his death, Denny spent five years denying prostate cancer from preventing him living life to the fullest. Denny was born on April 25, 1949, in Titusville to the late Howard and Doris Pattison. He married Kathleen Scott on August 28, 1971 at the First Presbyterian Church in Titusville.
Denny was a graduate of Titusville High School, class of 1967, and Penn State University in 1971. He remained a proud Nittany Lion fan his entire life, passing his love of the Blue and White on to his children and grandchildren. He served the Titusville Area School District for nearly 35 years, primarily as a School Psychologist. During this time, he was a tireless advocate for thousands of children.
Denny loved everything outdoors. During their youth, Denny taught his sons, Jesse and James, the value of sportsmanship and an appreciation for the natural world around them. Denny was an avid hunter, and most Saturdays in the fall and winter were spent rabbit hunting. In the spring and summer, Denny could be found on his boat, in the search for keeper panfish. When the bite was good, Denny especially loved putting together a fish fry for friends and family. Denny also devoted his life to supporting his sons' athletic endeavors, never missing a single competition and providing never-ending encouragement. Denny took immense pride in his sons' accomplishments, both on and off the field. Denny also loved watching Penn State Football, and his chili was a staple at every tailgate.
After retirement, Denny joined the Over the Hill Gang, eventually taking over as the lead for the crew. Denny took immense pride in maintaining the Gerard Trail and cherished every moment he spent with his fellow crew members. His love of the trails was spread to many and his efforts on the trail have benefited countless hikers, trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts.
Denny is survived by two sons, Jesse Pattison and wife Victoria of Slippery Rock, PA and James Pattison of Warren, OH, as well as his constant companion and partner, Gale Dunn of Titusville. He is also survived by his three adoring grandchildren, Harper, Jack and Cael Pattison, whom he loved with all his heart. Denny is also survived by four brothers, Darrel Pattison of Titusville, Kevin Pattison and wife Lynn of Grove City, Alan Pattison and wife Sue of Franklin, Norman Pattison of Titusville and a sister, Jill Pattison of Carlisle. He is also survived by three sister-in-laws, Cheryl Scott, Susan Scott and Jayme Scott, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Denny is also survived by a loving group of kids who have always known him as "Papa P" and an incredible group of friends who knew him as "Mr. Wonderful."
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen Pattison, with whom he spent 42 loving years, and parents, Howard and Doris Pattison. Doris preceded his death by just eleven hours.
Visitation will be held at the Gordon B. Garrett Funeral Home Inc., 303 N. Washington St., on Thursday, June 5th, from 5 to 8 p.m. Further visitation will be held at the Titusville First Presbyterian Church on Friday, from 10 to 11 a.m., at which time a funeral service will be conducted with Rev. Dr. Barry E. Cressman officiating.
Memorial contributions can be made to Friends of Oil Creek State Park https://friendsocsp.org/ or Friends and Family Against Prostate Cancer https://friendsandfamilyagainstprostatecancer.org/
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