Joey N. J. DeNauw, 61

Joey Noel Joseph DeNauw passed away at his home in Ocala, Florida, Sept. 28, 2026.

Born Dec. 20, 1964, in Laconia, he was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Marcelle DeNauw (née Trottier) and brother Frankie (Liz). He is survived by wife Nancy DeNauw; daughter Amanda Siff; son-in-law Christopher Siff; he was Pepé to his beloved grandchildren, Caiden and Addilyn; brothers Dan (Sheryl), Cary (Sue), and sister Bernie. He loved his nephews and nieces, reveled in being a godfather and admired his sisters-in-law for putting up with his brothers. He has an extensive family of cousins and friends.

Joey was born with spina bifida and started minute one facing his challenges and struggles that never discouraged or defined him. He was grateful to be given life and for the family and friends that supported him. He defied all odds along the way, tripling his life expectancy, which is impressive given some of the stories of his childhood antics. Joey was truly genuine to the core. When he said, “Can I ask you a question?” Look out, you just never knew what was coming next. He wanted to help people in need and for everyone to be kind to each other. He created his own special card to hand out as a way to meet people and start conversations. Often, he fought to defend people with disabilities, having no problem expressing himself for the cause.

He lived an amazing life. He was so proud to be a father, and Pepé loved playing with his grandchildren. He enjoyed sports, was partial to the Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics. He always wanted to play baseball. He liked fishing, ice fishing, swimming, biking, hockey and being on the golf course with his father, enjoying music and collecting all things M&M.

He knew the importance of keeping active and was often seen pushing himself in his wheelchair or on his handcycle through Laconia, Gilford and Ocala. Pushing himself up Mile Hill was one of his crazy endeavors and even crazier coming down. He lived many adventures to include taking the snowcat up Mount Washington with a disability group in the middle of winter, visiting the winners' circle in Daytona, trips to Fenway, Boston Garden, and Yankee Stadium.

You only had to meet Joey once, and he was never to be forgotten. He wanted it said, “For those who knew me knew me well and for those that didn’t can go to hell.” He was a true "character." It was an honor to share in Joey's life.

There will be a short cemetery service in Alton, on Saturday, Nov. 7, with a gathering thereafter, details to follow. There will be a celebration of life in Ocala, Florida, on Sunday, Dec. 20, details to follow.