Beloved Mémé, Denise Louise Santerre, was more than just a mother of seven; she was a beacon of love and warmth that touched everyone who crossed her path. Born in Bedford, Québec, to Charles Dery and Antoinette Lanoue, Denise was the fifth of 14 children, instilling in her a deep sense of family and community from an early age.
On a snowy Thursday morning on January 30, 2025, Denise, at the age of 96, passed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones in Colchester, Vermont. Her journey through life was not just about raising her seven children but also about spreading love and kindness to all. She and her husband, Francis Santerre, moved to Vermont in the early 1950s, where they built a home filled with love and faith.
A Culinary Legacy of Love
Denise’s love language was through her food. Working in the food industry and later assisting with food preparation at the VNA Adult Day program, Denise shared her passion for cooking with everyone she met. Her warm home was always open to visitors, who were treated not just with a delicious home-cooked meal but with a heaping serving of love and hospitality.
She not only shared her culinary skills but also left behind a treasure trove of recipes that will be cherished and cooked for generations to come. Whether it was her famous meatloaf or hearty beef stew, Denise’s recipes were not just about the food but about the love and care she poured into each dish.
A Legacy of Love and Family
Denise’s legacy of love extended far beyond her kitchen. She had a special place in her heart for her grandchildren, who will forever miss the sound of her sweet French accent and the warmth of her hugs. Her love for her family was unwavering, and she showed them daily what it meant to be part of a strong, loving family.
Despite the loss of her husband, Frank, her son Ronnie, and great-grandson Alexander Owens, Denise’s strength and love never wavered. She leaves behind a large and loving family, including her siblings and children, who will carry on her legacy of love and kindness.
Denise’s impact on those around her was profound and lasting. Her celebration of life, to be held at a later date, will be a testament to the love and warmth she shared with everyone she met. As we remember Denise Louise Santerre, we are reminded of the power of love, family, and the lasting impact of a life well-lived.
