Dean W. Denning

Dean W. Denning, age 96, who peacefully went home on April 6, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Dean was born on August 9, 1927, in Leader, Minnesota, to Ward and Donnie (Grove) Denning. Raised on a farm, he embraced the value of hard work and developed a deep affection for horses, which were integral to his daily life working the fields. Known for his appreciation of polka and square dancing, Dean found joy in these pastimes throughout his life.

During the Korean War, Dean bravely served in the Army as part of the Corps of Engineers. Following his military service, he settled in the cities and raised three children: DeeAnn, Jeff, and Eric. Dean's career spanned various roles, from driving semi-trucks to contributing to the construction of the Fort Randall Dam in South Dakota. He later transitioned to becoming a skilled heavy equipment operator and job foreman in road construction for the union.

Dean was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Jenna Denning, his parents, his wife Arlene Denning, and seven siblings.

He is survived by his daughter DeeAnn (Mark) Yzermans of Cottage Grove, sons Jeff Denning of Kansas City, and Eric (Joelle) Denning of Hastings, along with grandchildren Zach (Lindsey) Yzermans, Natalie, Julie, and Charisma Denning, five great-grandchildren, and a host of other cherished relatives and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 3:30 PM on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion St, Hastings, MN 55033. Following the service, there will be a time for fellowship to honor and remember Dean’s Life.

Memorials are preferred to be directed to the Journey Church at 105 W. 23rd Street, Hastings, MN 55033, in honor of Dean W. Denning.

Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel is handling the Arrangements.