Dennis Rocci Suslavich

Dennis Rocci Suslavich – Haverhill, MA

Dennis Rocci Suslavich | (September 14,1958 – May 24, 2026)

If you’re reading this, then I’ve probably passed on. Cancer is such a cruel disease. It not only affects the person diagnosed, but also the entire family who walks through it alongside them. Having cancer changed my life forever, and as time went on, the battle became more difficult. In the end, there are not many choices — you either continue fighting or surrender sooner than expected.

I want to thank the incredible doctors and nurses at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for keeping me in the fight as long as possible. I would also encourage all men over 40 to get a PSA test. Not every doctor automatically performs one, but it’s a simple blood test that could save your life. Unfortunately, I didn’t know what a PSA test was until it was too late.

I was proud to own Suslavich Plumbing and Fire Protection for nearly 39 years, though my illness forced me into an early retirement. I’d like to sincerely thank all of my customers for their loyalty and support throughout the years.

I enjoyed a life filled with hobbies and adventures — hunting, fishing, and taking my boat from Maine all the way to Florida. Being part of the boating community in Newburyport allowed me to meet so many wonderful friends over the years.

I was fortunate enough to be married to my rock, Sue “Susie”, for 42 wonderful years. The best day of my life was when my son, Dan, was born. We shared many great memories fishing and bowling together, and I especially enjoyed coaching the kids in the Saturday bowling league. Another treasured moment was having the honor of walking my niece, Sarah Griffin, down the aisle.

I’d also like to thank my lifelong friend Sam for always being there through the years. I’ve been blessed with many friendships that stood the test of time. Special thanks as well to my friends Tony and Dee for never missing our weekly thirsty Thursday dinners, conversations, and laughter together.

During the last four weeks of my journey, I am forever grateful for the “Boosting Crew” you all know who you are. You all truly made it possible to enjoy the last little bit at home.

Most of all, I will miss my wife Sue “Susie” forever. I truly don’t know what I would have done without her — she kept me going every day.

To my son Daniel “Danny” and his fiancé Staci you’ll need to step up now and take care of Mom. She deserves all the love and support in the world.

Thank you to everyone who was part of my life and journey. I was truly a fortunate man.

Dennis passed away peacefully at home on May 24, 2026, with his family and friends in Haverhill, MA.  He also leaves behind his mother Phyllis Suslavich, aunt Mary, sister Denise Schubert, husband Carl, brother-in-law Ron Dufour, sister-in law Pauline O’Brien, her partner John, brother-in-law Ken Dufour, wife Paula. Nieces and nephews Melissa O’Brien, Matthew Dufour, Sarah Griffin, husband Brad, Lauren Simeone, husband Adam.

In I lieu of flowers Dennis has requested that you make donations to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in his memory.

Calling hours are Monday, June 1, 2026 from 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM at Dewhirst Boles Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844. A funeral service will follow the calling hours at the funeral home at 12:00 PM. Please visit www.dewhirstbolesfuneral.com for directions, or to sign the online guest book.

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