Dennis James Sainato

Dennis “Butch” Sainato, 71, passed away on August 14, 2024 after a brief but brave battle with cancer. 

Butch was born in Ellwood City, PA to Louis and Helen Sainato. His hometown was always close to his heart. He often professed, “The sun always shines on Ellwood City!”--even if you were there and looking out at stormy skies. He had a memorable childhood filled with a large, loving extended family with whom he remained close throughout his life. 

He served his country during the Vietnam War and was posted to Fort Devens in Massachusetts as a company clerk. There he met his wife of 50-years, Donna. Together they lived in Massachusetts, Florida, and, finally, New Hampshire.

His family and friends loved him for his sense of humor, generosity, and warm (and, often, mischievous) smile. 

Butch appreciated the simple things in life: his four-legged pal, Peedey; good pizza; lots of coffee (Butch-style: cream and two Equals); the Pittsburgh Steelers; cooking delicious things (we’ll all miss his seafood alfredo); and browsing the aisles of Market Basket. 

He bluffed well at the poker table, loved an action movie, and enjoyed music immensely–especially 70s-era classic rock. 

Butch is survived by the love of his life, Donna (Lovett) Sainato. He was the very best dad to daughters, Kerry Sainato and Tonya (Sainato) Slowe; and a beloved brother of Sharon (Sainato) Pelligrene and Jeff Sainato. He will also be missed by many inlaws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and true lifelong friends. 

His family is planning a celebration of life with a date to be announced. 

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Community Hospice House of Merrimack in his honor. https://www.hhhc.org/how-to-help/memorial-gifts/