Denise Ann Riess

Denise Ann Riess, 84, died peacefully on Dec. 21, 2016 in Meadville, Pa.

Denise was born August 3, 1932 to Maurice and Ana (Kiealy) McGrath in Queens, N.Y.

She graduated from St. Elizabeth’s High School in Ozone Park and worked as a secretary at several companies in Manhattan and Long Island while caring for her parents. In 1971, she married widower Andrew F. Riess of Babylon, N.Y. and became mother to sons Andrew and Michael and daughter Barbara. The family moved to New Hartford, Conn., where Denise served as president of the local Parent-Teacher Organization, a member of the Sundown Squares square dancing club and active parishioner at Immaculate Conception Church. She also held administrative positions at Hitchcock Chair Company, the Town of New Hartford and FISH (Friends in Service to Humanity) in Torrington. Denise was an avid reader, a classic movie buff, a crossword puzzle master and a lover of cats and dogs. She and Andy enjoyed travelling to coastal New England, especially Rockport, Mass. and Kennebunkport, Maine. She liked the sun on her face, spending time with family and friends and quiet afternoons on the front porch. Following the death of her beloved husband in 2013, Denise moved to Hillside Home in Meadville. She died at Wesbury Home with Barbara at her side.

Denise was predeceased by her husband, her parents and brother, Maurice McGrath. She is survived by son Andrew of Upland, Calif.; son Michael and daughter-in-law Katherine of Bethlehem, Pa.; and daughter Barbara and son-in-law Kenneth Pinnow of Meadville, along with granddaughters Gracie, Natalie and Emily; and seven nieces and nephews.

The family is planning a private memorial service for early next year.

Denise will be buried at Long Island National Cemetery in Farmingdale, N.Y.

Arrangements are under the direction of STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com