It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Denise E Cady, a beloved sister, aunt, great aunt, and friend. Denise was born July 11, 1955, in St Paul, MN, and passed away June 17, 2025, in West St Paul, MN.
She is survived by sisters, Carol and Judy; brothers, Richard (Anna) and David (Janice); nieces and nephews, Leah (Tamrin), Shoshanna (Tom), Marhea (James), Mavis, Megan (Luis), James, Brittany (Rob); great nieces and nephews, Brendan, Danielle, Kayla, Connor, Micah; and friend and helper, Harold. Denise is also survived by an accomplice in adventure, sister from another mother, Kristen.
Denise was preceded in death by her father and mother, Roland and Ruth; and nieces, Siobhan and Melissa.
From birth Denise was plagued with health issues, but she was determined to enjoy life in spite of that. She enjoyed swimming and participated in Special Olympics, winning many medals and ribbons. Going to Camp Courage was another highlight of her years as was the State Fair. She loved fireworks and went to every display she could find, at any time of the year.
As a young adult Denise lived in two Dungarvin homes to increase her independence and maximize her quality of life. From there she lived in her own apartment for over four decades. She was employed at MDI for over 20 years.
Denise has been a member of Southeast Christian Church where she enjoyed serving in various capacities. Denise loved God with the simplicity of a child’s heart. Denise was an active member of Advocating Change Together (ACT) for many years and other organizations.
She spent the last few years of her life under the care of The Sanctuary (assisted living), Southview Acres (long-term care) and Lake Valley Hospice, all in West St Paul. Denise grew to love them as they served her, even when she demanded them to do it her way and at her speed. The family will never forget that you understood her and gave her excellent care. The Walk of Dignity will remain in our hearts and bring comfort as we remember her life.
Denise had a drive and a love for life and the occasions it offered to party, especially on birthdays. She faced her challenges in life with determination and a plethora of systems to control the challenges it brought her. Denise’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her and loved her. If you are one of them, you will never again dance the Chicken Dance without a smile on your face in memory of a beloved child of God, Denise E Cady.
There will be a visitation on Friday, June 20 from noon until 1:00 pm at Roberts Funeral & Cremation Chapel, 8108 Barbara Avenue, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077. She will be interred at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, 3400 Century Ave N, St Paul, MN 55110 on Friday, June 20 at 2:00 pm. A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, July 11 at Southeast Christian Church, 960 15th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Southeast Christian Church, 960 15th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.