Denise (Dee) Marie (Pattee) Prevedel, age 72, passed away from her nearly 11 year battle with Alzheimer’s disease on March 1, 2026 at her home in Denver, Colorado. Dee was born to Frank and Bonnie Pattee on December 6, 1953 in South Bend, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Dee spent three years in South Bend, Indiana before the family permanently relocated to New Hope, Minnesota. Dee spent her childhood growing up in New Hope where she attended Saint Raphael’s Catholic Grade School and Saint Margaret’s High School, graduating in 1972. She was known for how beautiful she was even though that wasn’t important to her. She was kind to everyone, cherished her friendships, was academically gifted and always had a strong faith.

Dee graduated from Creighton University in 1976 with a bachelor’s of science degree in nursing. She met her future husband, John, in her sophomore year, where they embarked on an eight year courtship. After graduation, Dee spent three months working in a Creighton-sponsored health care program in the Dominican Republic. The volunteer experience in a third world country made an impact on both Dee and John, and, after marrying on August 14, 1982, they flew immediately to Guyana where they worked side by side for a year providing patient care. Dee additionally taught nursing school to local students. John and Dee had a remarkable 51 years of being each other’s kindred soul.

Dee loved being a nurse, but put that career to rest as motherhood called. She raised and cared for her children with undivided passion and grace. She was organized, caring, nurturing, and supportive with each and every child. She always had a smile on her face despite the challenge of raising four children within a five year age span. Dee always said her children were her greatest blessing and provided true joy throughout her life.

Dee is survived by her loving husband John, and four children, Jay, Annalisa, Daniel (Camille), and Mary (Michael) who will always cherish memories of her. She was the most special and precious Nonnie to William and Micah. Dee had strong family ties and was the second of six siblings, Paul (Melanie), Mario, Fr. Dan, Cindy (Bruce) and Matt (Donna), with many nieces and nephews.

Dee had a radiating spirit that touched the lives of everyone with whom she interacted. To Dee, no one was a stranger, she was accepting and welcoming to all, no matter the circumstances. When Dee was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s on September 28, 2015, she was scared, and told her best friend, “John doesn’t deserve this.” She was worried about what was to come of her and the burden that may cause on her family. Throughout her illness, Dee continued to maintain pride in who she was, and continued with fearlessness as the best wife and mother until the day she passed. Alzheimer’s might have robbed Dee of many aspects of memory and engagement, but to the end, Dee remained courageous and loving with her beautiful smile shining through.

We love and miss you, Mom, but are so glad you are free. You fought hard for so many years, and now it is your turn to rest. Rest in peace Denise M. Prevedel.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 10:00am at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 1091 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80246. A mass will be said as well as a chance for anyone to say a few words about Dee. A reception immediately following with more details to come.

Please share memories of Dee and condolences with her family by signing the Tribute Wall below.