Leon C. Dense, age 80, of Alpine, NY, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, in the comfort of his home. He was born on April 3, 1945, in Waverly, NY, to the late Milton and Clara (Ostrander) Dense. He was predeceased by Ralph Dense (brother), Rosemary Gondeck (sister), Jerry Dense (brother), Paul Smith (brother-in-law), Shirley Dense (sister-in-law), and Kevin Dense (nephew). Leon is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Emily; his children Greg (Jackie) Dense and Brenda (Steve) Lehr; siblings Laura Smith, Barry (Diane) Dense, and Sid (Kathy) Dense; grandchildren Alyssa Dense, Jeff Dense, Marissa (Robert) Ash, Greg (Kelsey) Lehr, Lyndsey (Mike) Kee, and Brad Lehr; great-grandchildren Evelynn, Ezra, and Gabriel Ash, Benaiah and Adalyn Kee; several nieces and nephews.
Leon had a heart to help others starting in his early teens, with working at the mill to buy his mom a stove. His lifelong versatility in skill was called upon many times to help with automobile repair, photography needs, and anything to do with repair or construction from a home to gas pumps to dairy barns. He naturally displayed a work ethic gained through his upbringing and oft-mentioned mentors along the way.
It was a casual summer picnic baseball game where Leon was a hit with his future bride, Emily (or vice-versa). Leon juggled his automobile demands and being a youth group leader at church in their early dating years. Motorcycle rides, camping with family and friends, fishing, an occasional hunting excursion, and many walks on Connecticut Hill were cherished outdoor interests. Leon attended Alpine Baptist Church and was an active member of the Odessa Conservation Club.
Leon's earthly treasures were certainly his family times and the special bonds he would seamlessly forge. Family knows his 'checking the tires' times, sharing a cup of coffee, and undoubtedly a good one-on-one talk with some humor interjected. Leon's love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was a life mission and immeasurable.
Relatives and friends are invited to call on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 12-1 PM at Alpine Baptist Church at 5950 County Route 14, Alpine, NY, with a funeral service to follow at 1 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to Care First Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY 14870, or to Alpine Baptist Church, 5950 County Route 14, Alpine, NY 14805.