Dennis enlisted in the Air Force in 1972 and became a Ground Radio Operator. He served at Hill AFB, UT, Wiesbaden, GE and Warner-Robbins AFB, GA. He completed his enlistment in 1978 as a Staff Sergeant. He attended Eastern Washington University, graduating with a BA degree in Social Work. He worked for Spokane Public Schools for 24 years with high risk students. Dennis retired in 2012, following his diagnosis with ALS. Dennis and his wife, Greta, live in Spokane Valley, WA. Despite his battle with ALS, Dennis is still active in the lives of family and students throughout the community.