Dennis D. Pimental, Ret JPD

Dennis D Pimental, 79, passed away Sunday, February 5, 2023, after a brief battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Providence, Dennis was the son of the late Domingo C Pimental and Rita (Rossi) Pimental.  He was the beloved husband of Cheryl (Bassett) Pimental.

Dennis was a graduate of East Providence High School where he was captain of  the football team.  From 1967-1992, Dennis bravely and faithfully served the Town of Johnston as a police officer. During his time he was regarded as an expert in traffic accident investigation and as the prosecuting officer for the department. His bravery and devotion to the citizens of Johnston was highlighted during an emergency call when he selflessly jumped into a well in an attempt to save a drowning child. Dennis suffered lifelong injuries from this incident, however he never complained.  He had no regrets for his actions that day, stating that he would do it all over again for a chance to save the child.

While working and raising his family, Dennis received his Bachelor's Degree from Bryant College in Criminal Justice Studies and Business Administration. For the past 10 years, Dennis was a member of the San Bernardo Society where he was the Sergeant at Arms. He was an Elk and a member of the Smithfield Lodge #2359 for nearly two decades.

Dennis was an avid freshwater fisherman who truly enjoyed his time on the water, be it fishing in RI or on his annual fishing trip to upstate NY with his son and closest friends. He loved travelling to NH with his wife Cheryl along with their children and grandchildren.  For the past 25 years, his favorite vacation spot was the beautiful island of Aruba where he spent many sun-soaked days with his loved ones.

During golf season, Dennis loved being on the course with his golfing buddies where he could always be relied upon for his expert golfing advice. He was a lifelong hockey fan who rooted fiercely for the Dallas Stars.  Dennis was a voracious reader who could engage in an intelligent conversation regarding anything from bird migration to world history. If you wanted an answer to any piece of trivia, he could give you the answer.

Dennis can best be summed up as a gentle giant - a man of incredible physical and moral strength with the most generous and loving heart. He loved the simplest of things, whether it be sitting on the deck watching the hummingbirds he nurtured or smoking a cigar and drinking a martini.  Dennis found joy in the routine of everyday life - always living it to the fullest.

Although he is no longer with us, he will always be remembered for passion and zest for life, his unwavering integrity, and his infectious laugh.  Dennis touched so many lives in so many ways and we are all better people for having known him.

Dennis was the devoted father of Robin Pimental-Spicuzza and her husband Richard, Karen Pimental, Dennis R. Pimental and his wife Maryanne, the loving stepfather of Richard Pompei and his wife Rita, and Amy Desorcy and her husband David. He was the loving grandfather of Grace, Lizzie, Matthew, Bella, Zach, and Brady. He was the brother of George Tetreault and his wife Paulette. He was predeceased by two brothers Richard Tetreault and Robert Tetreault.

His funeral service will be held on Friday February 10, 2023, at 10:00 am at the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston. Burial will follow in Highland Memorial Park, Johnston. VISTING HOURS will be held on Thursday from 4:00 – 8:00 pm. Donations in his memory can be made to Rhode Island Alzheimer's Association 245 Waterman Street, # 306, Providence, RI 02906.