Guilderland- Denise Russell Ducatte, 49, of Guilderland passed away suddenly at her home on Thursday, July 6th, 2023. She recently celebrated her 17th wedding anniversary with her husband and love of her life, Robert F. Ducatte. Denise relished her role as loving 'Bonus' mom to their 3 children – Morgan, Carter & Lily.
Born in Rome, NY, she was the daughter of the late Harold E Russell and Marilyn Glass Russell. She grew up in Oneida with her sisters Kim (Russ) Collier, Kay (Mike) Dade and her brothers, Kevin (Deborah) Russell, John Russell and Andrew (Tina) Russell. Denise was predeceased by her brother, J. Scott Russell.
Denise earned her Masters at Sage Colleges, and worked as a principal, director and teacher throughout her career in Early Childhood Education. Her enthusiasm, compassion and sharp wit provided the perfect skillset for guiding young minds. She also shared these traits with the most important part of her life—her family, which included grandchildren, who affectionately called her 'YaYa'. Her two Shi-Tzu's, Lola and Coco also were blessed with her unwavering love and affection.
Denise's love of 'Housewives' episodes, all things Kardashian and her ever stylish black wardrobe was contagious. Her absolute love and affection for her family was a light she shined on us all. She was the party planner, perfect host and celebrator of life at the many gatherings at her home and we are so thankful for the gift that she was.
In addition to her parents, she was pre-deceased by her father in law, Robert F Ducatte, Sr.
Denise is survived by her husband, Robert, her bonus daughters, Morgan (Tim) Vishneowski and Lily Ducatte, her bonus son, Carter Ducatte and her bonus grandchildren Aubrey, Willow, Harper and Braden Vishneowski. She is also survived by her mother in law, Nancy Ducatte, her sister in laws, Merry Ducatte, Patti Ballato and Jennifer (Frank) Pusatere and her niece, Carrie (Ken) Stager and nephews Michael Ducatte, David (Amiya) Bornt, Nicholas Ballato, Joe Ballato, Adam Pusatere, Ben Pusatere and Sean Pusatere.
Calling hours will be Wednesday July 12,2023 from 4-6 pm at New Comer Funeral Home at 343 New Karner Road, Colonie, NY 12205, with a Celebration of Life service immediately after.
Denise would ask you gather your family close, laugh and celebrate life to the fullest.
To leave a special message for the family , please visit NewComerAlbany.com
Click here to view Denise's Service