Daniel J. Dente, 70, of Bridgewater and Livingston, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 with his loving family by his side, in Morristown. Daniel was born in Orange, to the late Dominick and Joan Dente, and worked for the Township of Livingston Public Works as a machine operator for 25 years, where many knew him by his radio call number 313. For 11 years, Daniel also proudly served as a volunteer firefighter for the Livingston Fire Department. Danny’s playfully mischievous personality, kindheartedness and generosity endeared him to all he met.
Daniel was an avid outdoorsman who especially loved fishing and hunting with his cousin, Gary Edwards. His passion for nature was always evident, owning numerous bird feeders and volunteering for many years at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. In addition to his love for the woods and mountains, he was also fond of the beach, and especially loved his annual vacation to Montauk, NY. Daniel was always intrigued by any new gadget he could get his hands on and was one of the first C/B radio users in New Jersey. Daniel is survived by his longtime, loving partner, Nell Sommese. He also leaves his siblings, Carol Dente and Patricia Dente-Cox; his niece and nephew, Heather and Charles Cox; his greatniece, Kelsey; his step-children, Kimberly and David Kaplan; and his loving, faithful four-legged companions, Gidget and Rocky.
Visitation was held on Friday, June 28, at the Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, Livingston. Cremation will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Daniel’s name may be made to Friends of Great Swamp or The Raptor Trust.
