Obituary of Dennis P. Cerame

Dennis P. Cerame

Pittsford: Friday, April 25, 2025 at the age of 69. Predeceased by his parents, Mario & Concetta; sisters, Annette Hazen and Denise Burke; nephew, Michael Arilotta. Dennis is survived by his loving partner, Donna Vitale; brothers, Anthony (Barbara Bournival) Cerame, Dr. Mario (Lori) Cerame; sister, Maria (Carmen) Arilotta; nieces and nephews, Mario K. and Christina Cerame, Abbey Hazen, Tiffany (DL) Walter, Robert (Katie) Burke, Matthew (Christi) Cerame, Brianna (Jeremy Posey) Owens, Blaise (Stefany) Cerame, Joseph Arilotta and Julia Arilotta; many great nieces and great nephews; cousins and friends.

Affectionately known as "The Governor," Dennis was the kind of man who showed up when you needed him - if he couldn't help, he'd find someone who could. A proud graduate of Irondequoit High School, Class of '74, he owned and operated Flower City Jewelers in Rochester for 38 years, building not just a business, but a community. Dennis had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found fishing, skiing, rock climbing, or lacing up for a hockey game. He was a master of cards, a lover of jazz, and a skilled party planner – from formal events for the Italian Businessmen's Association, to the 25 annual Stoney Brook reunions, family picnics, and countless bachelor parties – Dennis knew how to have fun – and he never forgot a holiday, delivering Christmas goodie bags with unmatched generosity. Whether organizing a gathering or simply sharing a laugh, Dennis had a gift for bringing people together.

His family will receive friends Sunday, May 18, 1-4pm at the funeral home (570 Kings Highway So.). Friends are invited to meet the family Monday, May 19, 12:00 pm at Irondequoit Cemetery for his graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to a charity of your choice.