Dena’s Story

Site created on November 4, 2019

Many of you know that mom has been experiencing some frightening episodes of respiratory distress over the last week. Last night (11/3), she experienced an extreme episode that lasted many hours even with multiple doses of Ativan and Morphine (if you know her, you know it is a big deal that she allowed us to medicate her through it). One of the many reasons ALS is so challenging to manage is because the symptoms and progression are unpredictable. It is impossible to say whether we have begun a quick decent to the end of her journey on earth or a long one, but we do feel that this is the beginning of her end of life journey.

We will be using this website to post updates on her journey. We suggest that you sign up to receive an email notification when we post an update. We are grateful for your prayers thoughts and words of encouragement. Mom is surrounded by her loved ones and care team and I am happy to say is sleeping peacefully next to me as I type this. She is a very loved woman and we hope that love and her faith can carry her through this.

Newest Update

Obit & Service Details

Journal entry by Kristi Rohrkasse —

Dena L. Papin (nee Martino), 61, Nov. 5, 2019, Bridgetown. Beloved wife of Steven Papin, devoted mother of Jonathan Papin (Elizabeth), Kristilyn Rohrkasse (Jonathan) & Loren Papin-Schaber (Allan), loving grandmother of Julia, James & Alexander, beloved daughter of Michael & the late Ezella (nee Crabtree) Martino, dear sister of Michele Martino, Sherri Yerkes (Joe), Michael Martino & the late Jack Martino (Kim) & loving niece of Mary Coniff. Also survived by devoted nieces & nephews & dedicated caregivers & friends. Dena had a 36 year career as an early childhood educator at the Arlitt Center at UC. She was known for her intense love of life & those around her. All are invited to join the family for a Memorial Mass at Our Lady of Visitation Church, 3172 South Rd., Fri., Nov. 15, 4:30 PM immediately followed by an Open-House Celebration of Life at Miami Township Community Center, 3780 Shady Lane, North Bend, OH  45052. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The ALS Association Central & Southern Ohio Chapter or to the University of Cincinnati Foundation with Arlitt Center designated as the recipient. https://www.gumpholtfuneralhome.com/obituary/dena-papin 
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