Denise Eskoff

Middle Grove, NY - Denise Ann Eskoff of Middle Grove, New York, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026, surrounded by her family after a valiant battle with breast cancer.

Denise was born in Frankfort, New York to her loving parents Stephen and Julie. Her bond with her parents was strong, and she often traveled across the United States to see them as her father's job moved. She was extremely close with her cousins in Frankfort, many of whom were more like brothers and sisters. She graduated from Frankfort Schuyler High School, received her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Delaware, her Master's Degree from SUNY Polytechnic Institute, and her Juris Doctor from the Vermont Law School. Denise provided legal services for many charities close to her heart, and she was a proud member of the planning board for the Town of Greenfield.

Denise met her lifelong partner, William (Bill) Schwerd, nearly 40 years ago. They lived together, laughed together, and took care of each other, always. She enjoyed noting Bill's strengths and weaknesses to the great delight of those around them. She welcomed Bill's three children (Mike, Rick, and Meg) as her own and became "Grandma Niesie" to her seven beloved grandchildren (Ted, Brooke, Kevin, Mikey, Anna, Nora, and Liam).

To those who knew and loved her, Denise was fierce: Extremely intelligent, honest, straightforward, and protective of those closest to her. She loved animals, particularly cats and horses, and devoted her time and resources to animals in need. On the lighter side, she loved fashion and was often seen in her trademark black and navy hues at family parties, celebrations, and sporting events.

Denise is survived by William (Bill) Schwerd; his children Mike (Bridgette), Rick (Jessica), and Meg; and her grandchildren (noted above). She is also survived by many close cousins, including Mark Harris and his wife Julie, and their children (Rebecca, Juliana, and Dina), along with Joe and Linda Barberio, Donna Barberio, Fran and Luann Barberio, Marilyn Green, Barbara Cortez, and Andy Faber. She doted on her cousins' children, and she was "Aunt Denise" to the newest members of her family in the Mohawk Valley. She also had many close friends, including Carol McAllister with whom she shared a lifelong connection.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 1:00am-1:00pm at the V.J.Iocovozzi Funeral Home, Inc 203 Second Ave., Frankfort, NY . A brief service will be held at the funeral home at 1:00pm, followed by burial in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Denise's name to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter 6010 County Farm Rd, Ballston Spa, NY 12020. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Denise felt strongly that animals, especially those in need, should be protected, provided for, and honored.

Expressions of sympathy may be placed on Denise's online memorial page by going to www.iocovozzifuneralhomes.com