Rev. Dennis W. Slater

Rev. Dennis W. Slater, 78, of Syracuse, passed away Friday, October 31, 2014 at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center. He was born in Syracuse on June 10, 1936 to the late Thomas F. and Marjorie Slater. Father Slater was ordained a Catholic priest on May 19, 1962. He was a graduate of CBA and received a bachelor's degree from Niagara University and his master's from Long Island University. He studied philosophy at St. Jerome's and theology at Our Lady of Angels. He served as associate pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Utica, St. Joseph's Church in Oneida and St. Patrick's Church in Truxton before entering the military in 1967. Father served in the military for 21 years, including two tours in Vietnam. He was a highly decorated Army chaplain and an honorary Marine. His service decorations include the Bronze Star with two oak leaf clusters, Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Father was predeceased by his sisters, Cornelia Gartland, Kathleen Springer, Marianne Slater and June Burgess; and brothers, Thomas Jr., Robert and Jerome Slater. Surviving are numerous nieces and nephews and Laura Drake, a treasured and loved friend. It was Father Slater's wish to donate his body to SUNY Health Science Center. Relatives and friends may call Tuesday, November 4 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Most Holy Rosary Church, 111 Roberts Ave., Syracuse. Vigil Service for a Deceased Priest will follow at 7 p.m. in the church. A memorial Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, November 5 at 10:30 a.m. in the church. Father Slater will be laid to rest in Onondaga County Veterans Memorial Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Contributions may be made to Food Bank of CNY, 7066 Interstate Island Road, Syracuse, NY 13209.