sentimentalize

verb2

1. •
   To give a sentimental feel to.

   • Let us not sentimentalize things just because they are old. Getting all dewy-eyed about it because it was started in the 17th century doesn't make sense when we're talking about the town dump.
2. •
   To think or act in a sentimental manner; to get sentimental.

   • he learnt to sentimentalize over cathedrals and monasteries , pictures and statues , saints and kaisers — 1857