Dennis Evan Dame, 79, of Lebanon peacefully passed Sunday, July 30, 2023, after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and those who loved him most.
Funeral services will be held at 9 a.m., Friday, Aug. 4, 2023, at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri. The service will be officiated by Dennis’ brother-in-law, Larry Barrett, and arrangements are by Greenlawn South.
Dennis was born to parents Eulous and Wilma (Welch) Dame on Jan. 27, 1944 in Lebanon.
He attended Lebanon High School, then moved to Springfield to attend Southwest Missouri State University. In 1963, Dennis joined the Navy, and was a veteran of the Vietnam War.
In addition to being a lover of all animals, especially German Shepherds and kitty cats, Dennis was an avid reader, music aficionado and lifelong fan of Cardinals baseball – even when the season wasn’t great. He loved his family fiercely and could tell a joke better than the very best.
Dennis is preceded in death by his father, Eulous, and mother, Wilma. He is survived by his loving wife, caregiver and partner of 27 years, Carol (Allen); sister, Phyllis Johnson and husband, Jim, of Lebanon; son, John, and wife Kendra of Fair Grove; daughter Julie and husband Robi of Springfield; Tina and Michael Kepley of Strafford; Jennifer and Jamie Jameson of Marshfield; Debbie and Jim Ellis of Fair Grove; grandchildren Colton and Sydney Dame; Tyler, Christopher (Brandi) and Emily Kepley; Shelby (Aaron) Hooker, Ashley and Dawson Price; Madi and Gannon Ellis; Allysen and Wade Jameson; great-grandson, Austin Hooker and a host of nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors in lieu of flowers. Dennis’ family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to Dr. Lobbins, Nicole and Alie with Phoenix Hospice, Chaplin Jesse Jordan, and dear neighbors, Nancy and Marilyn.
Extra-special thanks to his constant furry companions Blackjack, Angel and Sophie.
“All my burdens are behind me
I have prayed my final pray
Don’t you cry, over my body
‘Cause that ain’t me, lying there”
~ Lead Me Home, Jamey Johnson
