Dennis was my big, older brother; he grew to 6 feet 4 1/2 inches. He was always one for cracking jokes and staying on the “sunny side of the street”. He devoted his time and love to his wife, children and grandchildren. After Dad’s passing, he stepped up and took wonderful loving care of Mom. He did shopping for her, visited her often, would catch her up on his family’s news, make her laugh and included her in all their family’s holiday celebrations. Often he would bring her beautiful cut roses from his garden to brighten her day. He offered his love and service for the 40 plus years that she was a widow and living alone. He represented a selfless son who honored his mother. I remember that when he left, he would always give her a kiss on her cheek and say “love you Mom”. That was so touching to me.
Over the years, we were able to see Dennis and his family on our vacations to San Diego. He joined us at the temple for Julina’s wedding, that was so special. I remember cleaning up the outside trash at the Union Street house with him when it was empty. He has always been a hard worker! It was quite an adventure being with him because you never knew where the conversion would head.
Dennis came to visit us in Colorado twice in the years before 2020. We have so many fun memories of those visits.
I’m going to miss his phone calls at random times, when he just wanted to talk or share something. We had camping in common and he was so excited when he got his new camper. He wanted to take his family out and they enjoyed several adventures together.
Dennis had an amazing memory like his Mom. How he could come up with names, dates, and such detailed information amazed me. Sometimes I’d played along with his “remember when…” stories. I couldn’t remember those things but I didn’t want to break the spell of his incredible recollection of people, things, and events of the past. It was just like yesterday to him.
Dennis had a love of cars that he got from his Dad. He knew what car had what engine, their performance and track records. He could carry on a lengthy conversation and hold his own with any car buff.
I used to think of Dennis as a gentle giant. He learned to bridle his tongue and I never heard him say anything unkind about anyone. You always felt better after you talked with him. Oh how I will miss our conversations. He wasn’t one to complain about life, he took it in stride and didn’t get too stressed out. He was so easy going.
He was always doing for others. He loved his family! He said he wished he could spend more time with them, but if the Lord called him home, he would be okay with that.
He leaves a hole in my heart, but I will see him again and give him a big hug. He will be greeted on the other side of the veil by Mom and Dad, Grandma and Grandpa Tenney and all those who have gone on before. I’ll miss you Big Brother, but until we meet again remember I love you! Ellen