Frederick J. Denny of Sag Harbor Dies July 3

Frederick J. Denny of Sag Harbor died peacefully and surrounded by family on July 3 in Vero Beach, Florida. He was 86.

Denny was born in Southampton on July 27, 1936. He was the youngest of five children. He will be most remembered for his unconditional love of family and his kindness to friends and neighbors, his family said. He had a great sense of humor. His children have very fond memories of growing up in Water Mill before moving to Sag Harbor. One was going to Flying Point Beach, a favorite spot to cool off in the summer by jumping off his shoulders. He is affectionately known as Zeida by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He felt “Grandpa” sounded too old and chose Zeida after his close friend.

Denny was a diligent worker his entire life. His passion for golf began as a caddie at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club when he was 8 years old. In 1948, at 12 years old, Denny won a caddie tournament at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club.

He had a lifelong career as a self-employed master carpenter. Always the perfectionist, he built a loyal customer base that worked with him his entire career.

He was a long-time blood donor. Denny was always willing to help neighbors and friends, whether providing transportation to a doctor’s appointment, making a repair, or lending a tool. He was a member of the Southampton Fire Department.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Gale Denny (Backlund); five children and their families, Joanne Westervelt (Jonathan) of Shelter Island, Maria Huether (Christopher) of West Palm Beach, Paul Denny (Sarah) of Vero Beach, David Denny of Sag Harbor and Joseph Denny (Julie) of Shelter Island; 12 grandchildren, James Huether, Amanda Iacono-Gesa, Eric Huether, Marissa Iacono, Ryan Huether, Vanessa Denny, Christina Huether, Katherine Iacono, Kaylee Denny, Benjamin Huether, Bryan Denny, and Vivian Denny; and five great-grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on July 15 at St. Andrew R.C. Church in Sag Harbor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sag Harbor Ambulance or Sag Harbor Fire Department.