Denise M Salus, 68, of Pringle, passed away holding on to her daughter’s hand until the end, on May 8, 2023 after a courageous battle from a rare neurological disease presumed to be Corticobasal Syndrome. Born October 28, 1954 to the late Joseph Ridilla and Bernadine Evasic Ridilla who survives. She was a 1972 graduate of Central Catholic High School. Right after high school Denise worked alongside her father at the JS Raub Shoe Store, and then went into the dental field for 42 years. First as a dental assistant, then as a receptionist for Dr. Paul Mancia and Dr. Gary Nataupsky. Denise retired in February of 2020 in order to watch her first long awaited grandchild, Vivienne, briefly before being diagnosed. If you knew Denise, other than her love for her family, was her love for all animals, especially her dogs. Waiting for her at the Rainbow Bridge; Coco, Mack, Jazzy, Gracie, Starr, Lexie, Sophie, Blue, Reid, and Vicca. Denise was also known for her love for antiques and flea market finds. The greatest finds to her were those bought with a quarter, and most of all, the story that came along with every single item she ever bought. Denise could tell you the who, where and when of every find. For every treasure she came across, along came a memory. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her daughter and best friend, Mandy and husband Paul Wydra; grandchildren Vivienne and Fynn Wydra, and her Collie, Sage; a brother, Dr. Joseph Ridilla and wife Beth, and their children, Joseph and fiancé Alicia; Julia, Jacob; and great-nephew Mason. Her significant other and always at her side, Don, and ex-husband and friend, Pete. Denise was surrounded and blessed most of her life with her best friends, and as her daughter Mandy refers to them as their “guardian angels”; Patty, Maureen, Carla, Nancy, Skip, Larry, and Dale. They loving surrounded Denise and her daughter Mandy, through their most difficult time. Their prayers, and constant rotation of support will be forever cherished. Their love and loyalty go beyond what words can’t express. As we all endured together what is often referred to as the “long good bye” to their most dear and loving friend, whom they referred to as their sister, and to Mandy, her only daughter, who can’t imagine her life without her mom. From neighbors to co-workers, Denise maintained friendships for over 50 years. This is a testament of the kind of person Denise was. She was a kind, loving, giving, and supportive friend to all that she knew. Denise will always live on in the hearts of those she loved. “Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget” - G. Randolf Denise’s family would like to thank the staff at Highland Park Senior Living - Bridges Unit, for the excellent care they gave to Denise in her most challenging days, and to all the staff at Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore, for seeing Denise through her final transition into eternal life. All staff went above and beyond to surround Denise with dignity and excellent care. In lieu of flowers, Denise’s family requests donations made in her name to be sent to Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore or their favorite animal rescue. A Mass will be celebrated 10:15 a.m. Saturday at Holy Family Parish, 574 Bennett Street, Luzerne. Private interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton.