On the evening of December 9, 2012, Denny passed away at St. Peters Hospital, while surrounded by his loving wife of 47 years.
Denny was born on June 8th, 1937 in Regent, ND by Muriel & Alonzo Gray. At the age of 8 his father passed away and the family moved to Wibaux, MT. His mother was remarried to Leonard Job who became his father. Denny graduated from Wibaux High School with the class of 55’. In 1960 he was drafted by the US Army and held an administrative position in Hawaii until 1962. After his honorable discharge, he worked for various construction companies including Studor Construction & Melko Construction. In 1965 he met the love of his life Vivyann “Viv” Finco in Roundup, MT while road building for Studor Construction. They were married May 8th, 1965. Soon after they married, they had a daughter, Deanna. He went to work for The City of East Helena in 1970, in their maintenance department. In 1972 Denny went to work for GSA, in the building maintenance department. In 1973, Denny and Viv adopted their son, Troy. In 1993, Denny retired from the GSA. After retirement he worked part time for Enterprise Car Rental and with his son on various projects. Denny always had to be busy and was constantly working or fixing something.
In his earlier years, Denny and Viv purchased a recreational cabin in Lincoln, MT, where he enjoyed riding motorcycles and snowmobiles with family and friends. His favorite snowmobile ride was the night poker run held by the Ponderosa Snow Warriors. Denny and Viv were avid dancers and even won an award for their swinging skills at Montana Al’s. He enjoyed walking his adopted dog “Snoop” and sometimes walked him over 4 miles a day. He liked to hunt and fish with his grandsons and Rory Hoffman. In the last few years he has enjoyed traveling several times to the Oregon Coast and Reno, NV to spend time with family. He also enjoyed annual events like Depot Days in Wallace, ID and Hot August Nights in Reno. He loved the Holidays and being surrounded by family and friends. His greatest joys were his wife and grandchildren.
He was a member of the American Legion-Post #2, and had great pride and respect for our Military Veterans, especially his Grandson Dustin who spent 6 years in the Navy.
The most important parts of his life were his wife of 47 years, his children, and grandchildren. He was always there to lend a helping hand when needed.
Denny was proceded in death by Alonzo Gray (father), Bernie Job (brother), Muriel Job (mother), Leonard Job (step father).
Denny is survived by Vivyann Gray (wife), Deanna Hoffman (daughter), Troy Gray (son), Dustin Hoffman (grandson), Trevin Hoffman (grandson), Ashley Bird (granddaughter), Darlene Huseby (sister), Marilyn “Tootie” Weyer (sister), Claudia Bakken (sister), and Shirley Gundlach (sister).
Special thanks needs to go out to Butch & Ronda Huseby, Brian & Dana Huseby, Brent & Donna Huseby, Shirley Gundlach, Darlene Huseby, Shane & Shelly Moderie, Ross Battershell, Eleanor Vargas, and Joe Kokoruda for their support during his last days.
This man will be missed by many family and friends.
A graveside service, with military honors, will be held at 11:00 am Friday December 14, 2012 at the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison. A reception will follow the graveside service at the American Legion, Post #2; 3095 Villard Ave. Memorials in Dennis’ name are suggested to Frontier Home Health & Hospice, 800 Front St., Helena, MT 59601 or Lewis & Clark Humane Society, P.O. Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604. Please visit www.aswfuneralhome.com to offer the family condolences or share a memory of Dennis.
Sharon L. Nelson says
Viv and family,
My prayers are with you and your family at this time of sorrow and loss. Wish I could be there to give you a big hug. Always remember if you ever need anyone to talk to or just someone to listen, I am just a phone call away. I am just so happy you were able to come down here and visit.
RIP Denny.
Bill & Kathy Knutson says
Remembering all of the visits and card games of days gone by. Great times shared with great people. We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you Viv and your family.
Shirley Battershell says
So sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in knowing that you’ll meet again one day. With heartfelt sympathy.
Shirley
Kaci and Dan Moore says
Aunt Viv and family,
We will always remember the fun and laughter that we shared every time we were with Uncle Dennis. We always enjoyed spending time with him growing up, and listening to him tell funny stories or jokes. He will be deeply missed , we loved him very much. Rest in Peace Uncle Denny, until we meet again……..
Love,
Kaci and Dan Moore
Cari Hutchison says
Dee,
Your dad could always make me laugh. As sorry as I am to hear of his passing, I’m comforted in knowing that he’s no longer suffering. You and your family are always in my heart and prayers.
John Allen says
I am so sorry to read about the loss of Denny. I knew Denny to be kind and with a ready smile. We had a great time in the van that we bought from Denny.
Cogie Back says
Viv & family – So very sorry for your loss. He will be in your heart forever. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Don Pratt says
Viv and Family. I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Dennie. My thoughts and prayers are wiyh you at this Time. I know God will be with you in your time of need. I am in Spokane at this time and will be unable to to attend the services but my thoughts are with you
Deb "Littell" Dodge says
Vivyann I am deeply sorry to hear about Denny’s passing~ so very sad… I am thinking of you during this difficult time and send love and prayers your way- Denny was a great man, I have fond memories of him- Regards, Deb “Littell” Dodge-
Matt & Mary Kunnary says
Dearest Viv and family – Just a short note to say how sorry we were to hear about Dennis. Our prayers are with you and your family at this time. Take care Viv, if at any time you need help feel free to call.
God Bless.
Matt & Mary