Robert John Dennis passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on July 17 after a long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. He was 69 years old, born on September 6, 1955 in Johnson City, NY. He attended Union-Endicott High School and Broome Community College where he played soccer and hockey. He graduated cum laude from SUNY Fredonia where he met his wife and love of his life, Sharon Mattingly. They married in 1980, and shortly after moved to Dallas, where he received his Master's degree from the University of North Texas in long-term care administration. After graduating, Bob and Sharon lived in Cincinnati before making their home near Portland, Oregon where their daughter Erin was born in 1987. Before Multiple Sclerosis limited his mobility, in addition to playing hockey and soccer through his college years, Bob was an avid golfer and skier. Bob and Sharon often went skiing in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, with Mt. Hood in Oregon being their favorite. In 1993 they moved to Horseheads, NY to be closer to extended family, and Bob took an administrative position at Bethany Manor where he worked until his retirement. Bob, who friends knew as "Chaunce," was able to bring humor into any situation, including his diagnosis. He was a witty, intelligent man who could readily recall names, dates and facts. He was a fan of the New York Yankees, Giants, and the Syracuse Orange. He had a deep love of music that spanned genres, from rock and jazz to classical. A few of his favorite artists included Neil Young, Paul Simon, and especially Jeff Beck and Hot Tuna. Music is also something he found solace and joy in as his Multiple Sclerosis progressed. Above all, Bob was a generous, gentle soul, and a man of faith with great love for his family. Bob is survived by Sharon Dennis; his daughter Erin Dennis and her fiance Jordan Jhamb; brother George Dennis (Vicky); mother-in-law Adele Mattingly; brothers-in-law Tim Mattingly (Christina), Barrett Mattingly (Mary), Brendan Mattingly (Aurion); sisters-in-law Diana Mattingly (Greg), Mary Mosher (Jim); and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, George and Anna Dennis; father-in-law Thomas Mattingly; and brother-in-law Walter Mattingly.Bob and his family wanted to share a special thanks to his lifelong friend, John Butler, who always made it a point to call, write and visit, as well as the caregivers who were with him for many years, Dottie, Ashley and Jessica. We are forever grateful for their dedication and friendship. To the staff at Bethany Manor, too many to thank for their kindness and care for Bob.

Family and friends are invited to call at the Lynch Funeral Home, 318 West Broad Street, Horseheads, NY on Saturday, July 26, from 3:00-5:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, July 28 at 11:00 am at St. Mary Our Mother Church, 816 West Broad Street, Horseheads, NY. Interment with committal prayers will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Horseheads, NY. In lieu of flowers, Bob has asked that those wishing to remember him do so by making a donation to the Chemung County Humane Society & SPCA, or to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Words of condolence and memories may be shared at www.lynchsfuneralhome.com.