Dennis J. Cummings

Dennis "Denny" James Cummings, 79, of Saratoga Springs, New York, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026 in St. Peter’s Hospital. Born on September 8, 1946, he was the son of the late Charles and Mary Cummings.

Denny proudly served his country in the Army during the Vietnam War and remained deeply connected to the men he served alongside, attending reunions throughout the United States for many years. Those friendships and shared memories remained very important to him throughout his life.

He was a graduate of St. Peter’s Academy in Saratoga in 1964. A carpenter by trade, Denny was known for his hardworking nature. Saratoga Race Course was truly in his blood. He held fond memories of the track where his father was employed, recalling as a child selling pencils to patrons. His lifelong passion for horse racing led him to become a part owner of several racehorses over the years. He could happily recite the names of every horse he owned and always ended with a smile, saying, "Nolita pays the bills." During the summer months, he especially enjoyed visiting the stables and spending time with the horses, trainers, jockeys, and owners he admired so much.

Denny enjoyed watching sports, was a loyal New York Giants and Cincinnati Reds fan, and loved playing golf with family and friends each summer.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Charis Cummings, who passed away in 2015. Their love was playful, warm and deeply genuine with a marriage marked by humor, kindness and unwavering friendship.

A few years after Charis's passing, Denny enjoyed spending time with his loving companion, Sandy Huening and family. Sadly, Sandy passed away in 2022, but Denny continued spending time with her family, enjoying holidays and a shared love of horses especially with Sandy’s granddaughter, Samantha.

He is survived by his devoted close cousin, John "Jack" Cogan; his stepchildren, Dean Haskin and Ross (Keesha) Haskin and their families; brothers-in-law Donald (Donna) LeBuis, Dennis (Debbie) LeBuis, and Dennis Boomhower; several other cousins; many nieces and nephews; and his friends Mark and Joanne Elliot. 

In the last two years, as his health declined due to Alzheimer's disease, Denny was lovingly supported by Jack Cogan, Amy Versocki, Judy Boomhower, and Sharon Forman. The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Will Frohlich and Todd Koslik for the kindness and care they showed Denny.

Relatives and friends attending the services are asked to gather at the Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery (200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY) at 11:15 am on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. The funeral service with Military Honors will be at 11:30 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association of Northeastern New York, 1003 New Loudon Road, Suite 201, Cohoes, NY 12047.

As Denny would say, “May the Horse be with you!”

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com