Denise ‘Dee/DeeDee’ Tavano

WEST CLARKSVILLE — Denise J. Tavano, 62 of West Clarksville, passed away unexpectedly Thursday (Nov. 27, 2025) in her home.

Born in Olean to Raymond and Alberta Peters, Denise graduated from Olean High School and later moved to West Clarksville after marrying her beloved husband, Daniel, in 1995.

She spent many dedicated years working as a systems manager at Quality Markets and later as the manager at Big Lots in Bradford, Pa., remaining with the store until the day it closed.

A loving wife of 30 years, stepmother, grandmother, sister, aunt and great-aunt, Denise found joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life. She loved baking for her family and treasured shopping trips with her granddaughters.

She enjoyed riding in her husband’s classic car, attending car shows with her grandson and she rarely missed a chance to cheer on her grandchildren, nieces and nephews at their games, school events and activities. Denise also loved attending church and felt great comfort and community there. Some of her happiest times were spent with her sister and her nieces — Shawna, Hannah and Hallie — baking, shopping, laughing and simply being together.

Denise is survived by her husband, Daniel Tavano; her stepdaughters, Alyse (Dave Showers) Tavano and Brandy (Dallas) Owen; and her grandchildren, Devin Tavano Showers, Paisley Showers, Lilliana Showers, Cameron Owen, Aubrey Owen and Kaden Owen, all of whom brought her tremendous joy. She is also survived by her siblings, Mike (Sue) Peters, Robert Peters, Richard (Ima) Peters and Laurie (Jarett) Domes; her sister-in-law, Terry Peters; many cherished nieces and nephews; and several beloved great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Raymond and Alberta Peters; and her brother, Howard Peters.

Denise will be remembered for her kindness, her steady, gentle spirit and the deep love she had for her family. Her memory will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at Riverside Chapel, 134 Broad St. in Salamanca. All are welcome to attend, and the family invites everyone to wear blue — Dee’s favorite color — in her memory.

Arrangements are under direction of the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., Cuba.