Denis J. “Denny” Harrington, 91, of Skaneateles, beloved Seanchaí and hero, was a body donor to Upstate Medical’s Anatomical Gift Program, a “noble and meritorious act” (Catholic Church #2296.) He specialized in the construction and paving of highways as well as friendships. Born in 1929, to Joseph Joachim and Mary Carr Harrington. He was an altar server, graduated from East High School in Auburn, Assumption College in Windsor, and drafted into the U.S. Army to serve in the Korean War, 1950-1952.
Denis worked for his father’s business, JJ Harrington Concrete Company, and later championed the building of the concrete platform for the national landmark NASA Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at the Kennedy Space Center.
For 60 years, Denis was married to the love of his life, Susan Mason, a direct descendent of George Mason, the “Father of the U.S. Bill of Rights.” Denny was a sales manager for Barrett Paving, Allied Chemical, Santaro, Richard Way, and Syracuse Supply, and was frequently consulted by businesses in paving and highway construction, serving on numerous boards.
Denis also served on committees for St. Mary’s of the Lake Parish, Skaneateles Ski Hill Founding Board of Directors, and a longtime member of Skaneateles Country Club. He wintered in Florida with Susan, was an avid golfer, an Irish storyteller who told captivating stories to everyone he met, and recited the Irish Blessing at family events.
A graveside burial service with military honors will be Friday, Sept. 3, at noon, St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Auburn.
Full obituary at White Chapel Funeral Home website
