Dennis J. Cronin

Dennis J. Cronin, age 79, longtime resident of Merrimac, MA passed away unexpectedly at his home Tuesday, March 18th,2025 following a brief illness.

Dennis was born in Springfield, MA. He graduated from Haverhill High School and attended Northern Essex Community College. In his younger years, he worked in the family business, D.M. Cronin Lumber, and also Line Lumber Company. Later, he worked as a purchasing agent, which allowed him to travel extensively around the globe. He travelled with his sons to various countries, including Italy, Switzerland, and Kenya. He also travelled to several places with his beloved partner, Judy, including Las Vegas, North Carolina, and Austria. They also enjoyed many drives together locally in New England.

Dennis was always active in his community. He was at one time the President of the Fish & Game Club in Plaistow, NH, Plaistow Cemetery Treasurer, and Scout Master for Plaistow Boy Scout Troop 18.

He moved to Merrimac, MA over 30 years ago, and quickly made many lifelong friends. He was loved by everyone who knew him. He was very Patriotic and had a great appreciation for our wonderful Veterans. He was very proud to become a member of the Journeyman Brotherhood and spent much of his time participating in and organizing events to raise money for Veteran’s Day meals and toys for children in need at Christmas.

Dennis was predeceased by his parents Evelyn and James Cronin, his sister, Evelyn Obsorne, and his eldest son, D. Michael Cronin.

He leaves behind his beloved, long-time partner of 42 years, Judith Hikel, his children, James Cronin and former wife Nancy, Keith Cronin and his partner Dawn, Christine Mears and her husband Peter, Deborah O’Neil and her husband Steven, Wayne Hikel, Grandchildren Jordyn Bucciero and her husband James, Shane Fossiano and partner Natasha, Timothy O’Neil and partner Amanda, Kristina O’Neil and fiancé Mark, Kiera Hikel, his brother in-law Roger Obsorne, as well as several cousins, nieces, nephews, and many amazing friends that he considered family.

Funeral Services will be private at Paul C. Rogers Funeral Home in Amesbury, MA. There will be a celebration of life for all to attend at 1 pm, April 19th at The New Old Oak in Merrimac, MA.