When Denise D’Ascenzo died on December 7th, I decided to focus much of my attention on trying to carry on her legacy as best I can. She was kind to everyone, and we both practiced acts of kindness over the years, but since Denise’s sudden and shocking passing, these measures have a little more meaning.
Since the pandemic began, I’ve kept a stack of Dunkin Donuts gift cards with me that I replenish as needed. When I see someone down on their luck at a traffic light or outside a building, I hand them one. Some hot food and a drink may not change this person’s life, but it could change their day, their outlook and give them a boost they need to change their life. I’ve been very blessed during my years on earth and I want to give back.
On Monday, August 31st, as I headed into work, I saw a woman at the entrance to the on ramp holding a sign that said she was homeless and hungry. I handed her a gift card and wished her well. I turned to my right and in the car next to me was a beautiful woman of about Denise’s age. She gave a smile and a thumbs up.
As the light turned green and traffic advanced, I noticed a 777 on a license plate. Denise and Kara would text each other when they saw these numerals in threes: 444, 888 and so on. Angel signs they said.
Denise loved the ocean and she loved Newport. This past weekend I went all by myself to a quiet place on the rocks there and spoke to Denise about what is going in my life. This was the scene. It was peaceful and beautiful, much like my TV wife, sister and one of my best friends whose loss Kara and I live with every day.
The next morning after my visit to this spot, I woke up after a vivid dream. In it, Kara, the kids and I were driving when we came along a herd of baby elephants. It looked like the Wilbur Cross or Merritt Parkways, definitely not a place where one would expect to see elephants. We got out of the car and touched these beautiful young animals. We looked for their mother and there she was, at a distance in the woods, giving a look that all was okay. Her face looked like Denise. And then I woke up.
Denise loved elephants and this sculpture of a mama elephant and her baby was a treasured gift from her daughter Kathryn that was displayed in her desk until her death.
I looked up the spiritual meaning of the elephant and this came up:
“Elephants have a positive symbolic meaning all over the world and are considered a symbol of good luck, power, success wisdom and experience.
Because elephants are highly social animals, they are also considered to be a symbol of loyalty, companionship and unity.“
What the dream meant I do not know, but Denise’s husband told me he believes I was visited by his beloved wife.
Categories: Connecticut, Dennis House
Dennis House blog 
Beautiful post. I too believe in dreams having great significance. There were many signs there that Denise is watching over you and your family.
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Oh Dennis, I miss you’re reporting but I know it’s something you had to do. I’ll never forget Denise D’Ascenzo. She was a wonderful, kind gentle woman.
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WHAT A BEAUTIFUL POST, BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES, YOU AND DENISE WERE BEST OF FRIENDS SHE LOVED YOUR FAMILY A D YOU LOVED HERS. YES I BE.LIEVE SHE VISITED YOU , AS SHE OFTEN DOES. SHE IS AROUND THOSE SHE LOVED. MOTHER
TERESA TOLD ME WHEN WE LOSE A LOVED ONE. THEY VISIT US OFTEN AND WE SHOULD PRAY FOR THEIR REPOSE SOUL SHE DID NOT DIE INVAIN. SHE WAS CALLED BECAUSE GOD NEEDED HER MORE , SHE IS BUSY DOING GOOD FOR THE LIVING . SHE WANTS YOU AND KARA , AND THE CHILDREN TO L,IVE ON THANK YOU FOR THINKING OF OTHERS. I WISH MORE PEOPLE WERE LIKE YOU. WE ARE ALL BROKEN ,WOUNDED. BLESS YOU
SR. VERONICA. OSB
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I believe Elephants represent strength and remembrance. I think Denise was reminding you of your strength and that she is right by your side ❤ Miss your face on channel 3 and wish you happiness in the next chapter of your life.
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You just brought tears to my eyes. I find elephants a very interesting animal that God has create Now don’t get me wrong but God create one very special person when he created Denise I am not Comparing Denise to an elephant I believe that Denises husband was correct saying she was reaching out to you and your family It is so nice to work with people who is you consider your work family. God Bless you all at WFSB and your personal family.
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Dennis
I totally believe everything you said. I too have lost someone I loved deeply. My husband. I know he visits when I’m sad and I always say Goodnight and good morning to him. You can never move on you have to teach yourself how to enjoy the memories. I can never replace this wonderful man nor would I even try. Now we are left here to make our best lives for our family and ourselves.
Good luck to you Dennis.
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I needed to read this, especially as 9/11approaches. When my parents passed, years apart, they appeared to me. I consistently see the time 11:11am or PM regularly. Whatever you believe, this is significant. Denise will continue to guide and encourage you and Kara. Sharing with us is helpful. Blessings to you snd yours. You’ve earned my trust over the years. 😇🧡
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That’s beautiful. Brought tears to my eyes. She obviously meant a lot to you and she’s letting you know that everything will be fine and she’s fine.
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I do believe in ‘angels without wings’ and I believe Denise was one of them!!!!!
Her soft spoken, gentle spirited soul, her kindness, love, humility, class, beauty inside and out, left a mark in my heart, that will be felt forever, and she was truly ‘second to NONE!’
The evening news, and her presence, will NEVER be the same. She is sorely miss!!!
What an amazing blessing and honor for you, Dennis, and all the WFSB family, to have had the honor and privilege to know, love, and work with her over the years.
Our loss, is certainly, heavens gain!!!! 💔
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Heartfelt reflection, all of which I believe in, a beautiful story of a dear friend.
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What a beautiful story. I truly believe Denise was with you . I think about her often. Why, why did such a beautiful woman with a beautiful heart have to leave us so soon? Thank you so much for sharing this story. But they say God only takes the best. Take care.
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Heartfelt reflection, all of which I believe in, a beautiful story of a dear friend.
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Dennis,
You have such a connection with Denise, I do believe when that connection is strong they can give you signs that they are ok and that they are with you. Thank you for sharing these experiences with us. I know that hurt and I truly wish you love, health and happiness wit Kara and embrace those moments with Denise❤️
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I think that she is aware of what is going on and that you will do well! I believe in angelic numbers and signs, I feel that they bring me comfort. Thanks for sharing,and coming back on to Facebook and Instagram I enjoy the others doing the news but I truely miss you stay safe!
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Dennis, I am so very sorry for this major loss in your life. It seems to have touched you so deeply, that it will never stop hurting.
I love the story you shared and I do believe this angel will always be near you.
It’s a beautiful thought. How lucky for you and your family to be able to have her in your lives, a true blessing my friend!
I believe that when Denise passed she took a piece of your spirit with her to keep her company.
I wish we could bring her back too, and I wish we could bring YOU back to us again also. Now your loving viewers are missing you both!
I personally will only watch WFSB.
I love the family unit there but without you and Denise, it will never be the same.
I hope you find what you are looking for Dennis, but I think she’s gone and no change you make in your life will ever bring what you had back.
I know, because i lost my husband of 40 years, 12 years ago and still find my life empty. No matter who, what, when or where I go or meet my life will never be the same.
I am just grateful for enjoying the time and company i had while I had it.
Keep moving on Dennis until you find “that place” you are looking for, But, don’t forget to stop and smell the roses along the way. ❤️
Sincerely,
Linda Mansolf
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The people we love and have lost come to visit in our dreams. I feel that my loved ones are always close to me.
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She was a beautyful lady,soft spoken and down to earth person.R.I.P. Deniese
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Yes you were visited by your dear friend
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If you’re interested, I suggest that you go to the Spiritualist Camp in Niantic on Sunday morning at 10:00 or 10:30 a.m. Everyone gets a reading. You can also recieve private readings.
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that was just beautiful. Yes Denise was loved play everyone that came in contact with her I never met Denise but I absolutely cherished her beauty her warrant and a Devotion to her family add to you and Kara. I know elephants our very good sign of love and loyalty. God bless you Dennis and I hope you find whatever you’re looking for and it’s probably there right in front of you a pen and paper.
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That’s so beautiful just like her glad you went to Newport it’s a beautiful place wish you much luck on your new adventures in life will miss not see you on the news follow your dreams
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Hi Dennis, I had tears in my eyes reading your story! Denise was so special and a beautiful person. I wished I had met her. I love elephants too and have one on my coffee table that was a gift from a friend. I honestly think of Denise. I also
miss seeing u on tv. Happy retirement Dennis. Watch channel 3 all the time! Love to Denise, u and Kara! Sincerely, Kathi Glennon
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Thanks Katherine. I’m not retiring. I’ll keep you posted on what’s next.
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Well, that was an amazing story. I believe 🙏 in the after life and are loved ones and the ones most close to us. Truly. This brought me to tears.
I was so shocked at her passing. I brought it up at my doctor’s visit.
God bless you
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KARA I just loved Denise as everyone did and I think of her so often. I do believe that she misses you and is leaving loving signs for you. Keep your great work and sending hugs and love your way. Hello Dennis
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You were truly blessed to have known her
And we are blessed to have you and Kara in Connecticut
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She was with you. Believe that she is with you everyday. Keeping you safe and will.help you with your next chapter in your life. You are missed. I just hope you are happy. She is missed feels like my TV family are all moving on. Good Luck to you.
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You definitely were visited by your friend and she just wants you to know everything is going to be fine.
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This was such a nice post. I especially resonate with the Newport connection. Hope that time and memories bring you some peace.
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A “LONG TIME WFSB” watcher! (AND WTIC RADIO – Bob Steele & his replacement), I recently lost my husband of 62 years (CMDR. Charles D. Kepner, Jr. USN-RET) & I know your sadness for the loss of your WONDERFUL FRIEND Denise. We ALL will miss her.
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She was definitely letting you know she is with you always. I truly love when I see signs from my mom and dad. Denise may not be here physically but her spirit is with you always.
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God showed you His love through Denise while she was a live, and that continues even now in death. Beyond special….. ♡
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What a beautiful story Dennis. I had tears in my eyes reading it. she is missed by so many who watched her each evening. You made a great team and you too will be missed when you leave WFSB. My Mothers house address number was 717. When I glance at a clock in my house or car, 717 periodically shows up. She is present at that time. I feel it. Thank you for sharing your story. It is a form of healing for you.
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Thanks for sharing. Please keep us posted. I miss you on Ch3…..hoping good things will come your way, and ours.
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Wonderful story and remembrance of a beautiful lady.
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I believe you were visited by Denise miss seeing her and miss seeing you Good luck in whatever is net for you
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Her spirit will follow you wherever you are. She will always be with you and you will constantly see reminders of that. The elephant is probably her spirit animal. She is letting you know that she is by yourself side and is happy with what you are doing and on the right path – self discovery? Most likely. Have faith In yourself. Believe in yourself too. She’s talking to you. So
Listen.
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Denis you have such a good soul like Denise, always thinking in helping others, whatever the future have plan for you, I want to wish you the best.
I had some many dreams with people that I really loved, believe me or not they are thinking and watching over you and your family
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I believe in angels. I believe in loved ones sending signs from above. No doubt about it. And with the triple same numbers. You bet. Very nice Dennis. Blessings to you and your family and keep believing too. 🙏🏼
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Beautiful post! Hope you are doing well!
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Only once in a lifetime are we so fortunate to be blessed with such a beautiful person. Some never experience such a great friend! Always remember the special times and moments that have given you such joy. I’m sure Denise did visit you and was giving you a special message! Once in a lifetime Dennis! Denice was a gift and your life is so much richer for her presence in it! Stay strong!
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I truly believe you were visited by her , we tend to dream of people we lose and meant a lot it us , and some how they find a way to communicate to us any way they can
I’ve felt loss myself and when I dream of them I consider it a visit from heaven , as well as when I see a cardinal
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Dennis, no matter we go, no matter we may be, a part of them stays with us and a part of us goes with them. Denise will always be with you, every time you look around you will see her. As time goes on it will not get easier; however, you will come to accept that she is not physically present, but there will be times that her spirit will present her physical appearance in signs that may only have meaning to you. This has been true for me with my mother who passed in the fall of 1980 and my husband who passed in the spring of 2011. Embrace these moments. They are gifts. Thank you for sharing this story. Miss you and hugs to you and Kara.
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Dennis we are going to miss you too. The face of channel 3 is changing. So sad.
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The spirits of those we loved and lost are never far away. The relationship you had with Denise was something special and your friendship and love showed everyday on TV. You are fortunate to have these signs to keep her alive in your heart.
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Dennis, how fortunate you and Denise were to share such a special bond. Denise is sorely missed by everyone who got to know her through Channel 3. I miss your interaction together. You are both kind, genuine, loyal people and it’s easy to see why you had such a strong connection. I will miss seeing you on the evening news but know that whatever your future holds, you will continue to make a difference in people’s lives.
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Just a blessing…. ♥️♥️
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That story is so beautiful. I remember Denise when she did the telethon & I was able to me her because I was one of the people that answered the phones that year. I don’t remember the year, but she was really nice. I also miss seeing her smiling face. She was really beautiful. I want to wish you the best of luck in the future. Take Care
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This was most definitely a sign from Denise. She is always with you. When my father in law passed years ago I was devastated. I was laying on the couch with my husband at the time and we were sleeping. I heard someone coming up our cellar stairs and the door close. There was my father in law smiling at me. I woke my husband but unfortunately he didn’t see him. Will never forget the aura around him and his peaceful smile.
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Dennis, I can’t even image what you are going through. My heart breaks for you, Wayne and their daughter. Why do such tragic and unexplainable things happen to those we love? Those we know make the world a better place here on earth but are gone too soon; we need these kind, giving and wonderful people here making our world a better place. Maybe Denise was supposed to leave a year earlier, a month earlier, a week earlier or even a day earlier, but there was more love and kindness she needed to share. Maybe think about it this way??? Gee I don’t know. God bless you, your family and the healing and peace that can’t come soon enough. 😥
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I do believe you were visited by Denise as well. ❤️ Thanks for sharing this.
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Wishing you well in you next endeavor!! Denise is watching over you every day..
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Good morning Dennis, thank you for sharing this beautiful memory of Denise. Today is my birthday I was born at 4:44 am, my Parents call me every year at this exact time. I thought of Denise and you, believing in signs. My Dad gave me a charm bracelet when I was in kindergarten, the first charm he put on it is a jade elephant. Today I’m thinking of the love that Denise cherished in every single moment, miss her dearly. I miss seeing you on TV. Have a great day today with your family 👋😊💜
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Beautiful post. I think of her often. I believe you were visited by her too. Thanks for sharing.
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Dennis, you and Denise emanated such goodness and love of humanity through the airwaves. Doesn’t surprise me that it continues. You, here on earth; Denise, across the universe. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story.
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Dennis since Denise passed, as I watched you on TV, you always had a twinkle in your eye that I knew was Denise.
You have praised Denise before and after her passing-highlighting her personality traits that you admired…..MANY of us here in Ct praise YOU for those same traits.
My family used to refer to my mom and I as “two peas in a pod”-that’s exactly how I perceive you and Denise.
Smile as you leave WFSB behind-9 months after your best friend, work wife, etc. You, as Denise, have much more to share with the world—you will do great things while finding happiness, just as she would have. On those days where you sit and ponder “what’s next”, think about what Denise would have done.
Keep reaching for the midnight stars Dennis!
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Seeing Denise’s face pop up is such a comforting vision; thanks so much for sharing such a beautiful, special and rare relationship you both enjoyed. There is no question in my mind she’s an angel in your and Kara’s life, forever, thats comforting too!
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I send Blessings to you and your beautiful family Dennis. I grew into adulthood watching you and Denise on Channel 3. You both comforted.me through tragedies on more than one occasion. I miss both your faces every day. Life is all about change and I believe Denise came to you telling you to follow your heart. No matter where you go, or what you do she is in your heart and by your side. Many of the familiar faces are gone from Channel 3, but I will FOREVER miss you and Denise’s presence. God Bless and God speed.my friend. Spread your wings, spread kindness and share the goodness Denise left inside your heart. She is guiding you and will ALWAYS be with you. I miss your face.❤
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I also believe our loved ones visit us in dreams and continually reach out to us🥰🌈
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I agree. Thanks Lynda!
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