Alex Dengler

Alex J. Dengler passed away peacefully at home on January 19, 2017.

Born in Cold Spring, New York, on February 25, 1986, Alex grew up with an unparalleled enthusiasm for life.  Dubbed “Spuds McKenzie” early on, he was always up for a party.  His answer to any opportunity for fun was a consistent, “Yes!”  Possessing a natural gift for baseball, he played all through high school and was offered a sports scholarship to college.  Post September 11th, Alex chose rather to formalize his loyalty and love for his country by joining the Marines.  He walked the talk, in his own quiet way and without fanfare.  His bravery and courage were unwavering, while serving in Iraq and later, living with cancer.  Alex’s inherent nature is to never give up; every challenge and obstacle was faced with stoic tenacity.  He inspired all he touched.

Perhaps his deepest passion was for music.  It permeated every aspect of his life and became his therapy, carrying him through hardship and pain with grace.  Between recurrences of cancer, Alex attended Five Towns College, graduating with honors and chosen as valedictorian.  Creating beauty in the midst of chaos, he spent hours composing original tracks on guitar, drums and keyboards.  An avid reader, Alex devoured books with an insatiable thirst for learning.  And nature brought the ultimate peace to his soul.  He often stood outside watching a sunset, a moonrise, the changing of the seasons.

Alex loved his family deeply and took nothing for granted.  He was gracious and grateful for every gift given, no matter how large or small.  His hugs were the best and his quirky and witty sense of humor absolutely infectious.

Alex is survived by his loving family:  Janice and Peter Di Natale, his siblings Kristen Celentani, Paul DiNatale, Gabrielle Flanagan, Matthew Dengler, and Grace Di Natale, his brothers-in-law Jason Celentani and Jonathon Flanagan, his sister-in-law Margaux Di Natale, and his nieces and nephews Nicholas, Michael, and Joseph Celentani, Elena and Audrey DiNatale, and Liam Flanagan.  Alex will forever be held close in the hearts of so many.  His life has made a difference.

Visitation will be Sunday, January 22, 2017 from 2:00-5:00 P.M. at Clinton Funeral Home, 21 Parrot Street, Cold Spring, New York. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 23, 2017 at 10:00 A.M. at Our Lady of Loretto Church, 24 Fair Street, Cold Spring, New York.  Burial will follow in Cold Spring Cemetery.

Donations in Alex’s memory may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center at giving.mskcc.org by going to the “Honor a Loved One” link.

For Alex’s Guestbook please visit www.clintonfh.com