Dennis Beers, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2024, in Yorktown Heights, NY, after a courageous battle with esophageal cancer. Born on February 1, 1948, in Brooklyn, NY, Dennis was a good man, filled with love, loyalty and the desire to help.

Dennis, a proud veteran, served his country with the Marine Corps in Vietnam from 1965 to 1968, displaying bravery, loyalty and honor. After his service, he began working in security with the New York Stock Exchange and then the Stock Clearing Corporation, which later became the Depository Trust Company - where he met his wife, Marie. In 1974, Dennis's sense of duty and commitment to public safety led him to join the New York Police Department, where he served in the 50th and Midtown South precincts before becoming a Detective with the 44th Precinct in the South Bronx, Homicide Department.

Upon retiring from the force, Dennis as many of his fellow retired officers to Lakeland Central School District's Transportation Department. He found immense joy in helping kindergarteners on the bus to school, handing out candy canes & holiday pencils, or settling an argument over who said what. He always said it was “better than working for a living,” and "a ride in the country." Spending time with the kids was his true calling, after all he was truly a kid at heart.

Dennis was a familiar face in his neighborhood, always ready to greet passersby or lend a helping hand to a neighbor in need. A true craftsman at heart, he took great pride in building things right, whether it be a garage, a sunroom or a pool house. A jack of all trades, and master of many. With the exception of cutting some trim or checking a skylight, he loved passing on his skills to his beloved daughter, Bianca. Dennis was also an avid collector and enthusiast of Lionel Trains, spending many a Sunday morning at train shows across the tri-state area.

Dennis was preceded in life's journey by his mother, Pearl (Macheski) Beers, his father Orrin Beers, and his sister Theresa Thompson. He leaves behind a tapestry of memories and love with his wife, Marie Beers; his daughter, Bianca Najjar; son-in-law, Charles; grandchildren, Christian and Kelsey; and his brother, David Beers.

Dennis's legacy is one of a life lived with kindness and love. His absence will leave a void in the hearts of his family and the many lives he touched, but the memories of his kindness, his laughter, and his unwavering spirit will continue to inspire and comfort all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be remembered not only for his service and dedication to his country and community but also for the enduring love he had for his family and the simple pleasures of life—some fried shrimp, a good scotch, a well-crafted project, and the company of those he held dear.

So, here's to Dennis Beers, a man who never met a stranger or a project he didn't like, a hero in a tool belt, and the world's most unlikely kindergarten whisperer. His legacy will continue to chug along like the Lionel Trains he adored, bringing joy and memories to all those he loved. Rest easy, Dennis, and thanks for the smiles. (We're so glad you practiced resting your eyes, you’re gonna do great!)

In lieu of flowers please send donations to St Jude's Children's Hospital.