Dawn Arlene Bentley-Wilson, age 64, of Rensselaer, NY and formerly of Pittsfield, MA died on October 27, 2022 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany after contracting a severe case of the Covid-19 virus.
Born in Pittsfield on March 3, 1958, Dawn was a daughter of the late Richard and Leona (Rathbun) Bentley. She was educated in the local schools and earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Respiratory Therapy in Boston.
Dawn spent much of her career as a respiratory therapist at St. Peter’s Hospital and later went on to work in the sleep center there.
All who knew Dawn will remember her as being a generous woman who knew how to enjoy the pleasures life has to offer. She travelled extensively, went on many cruises and was always up for a fun shopping adventure.
To say Dawn loved animals would be an understatement. She rescued countless animals over the years, especially enjoying the many dogs, cats and birds she gave a home to.
Dawn married Barry Wilson on April 30, 2005 and the two spent 17 wonderful years together.
In addition to her beloved husband Barry, Dawn is survived by her sister Tanya Hunt of Pittsfield, her dear friends, Bill and Carol Wenzel of Oviedo, FL, Mary Ellen Trahanas of Boston, MA, Christy LeBarron of Colonie, NY, her step-son Joel Wilson of Binghamton, NY, aunts Louise and Mary, and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.
SERVICES: Friends are invited to gather with Dawn’s family on Wednesday, November 9th beginning at 10:30AM at the DEVANNY-CONDRON FUNERAL HOME. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will follow beginning at 1PM at St. Joseph’s Church of Pittsfield celebrated by the Msgr. Michael Shershanovich, pastor. Burial at Pittsfield Cemetery will be at a later date.
Dawn’s family asks folks in attendance to not “dress like you’re going to a funeral” rather please dress as if you are attending a great party. Dawn would love bright and colorful outfits worn to celebrate her life. The family also will be wearing Covid-protective masks and are encouraging those in attendance to do so as well.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Dawn’s memory may be made payable to either “Mohawk Hudson Humane Society” or to “Berkshire Humane Society” and mailed to the funeral home at 40 Maplewood Ave. Pittsfield, MA 01201.