John “Jack” Dennis Jr. 73, a life long resident of Keene died on Wednesday, March 18. 2015 at Langdon Place of Keene. He passed peacefully with his family by his side after a brief period of declining health.
John was born the son of the late Christine M. (Castaw) and John H. Dennis Jr. on December 1, 1941 in Keene. He was educated locally and graduated from Keene High School class of 1961.
On August 26, 1961 he exchanged vows with Jacqueline A. Vorce. They were married with family and friends in attendance at St. Bernard’s Church in Keene. The Dennis’ have married for fifty three years.
John spent thirty five years working at Kingsbury Machine and Tool. He was also employed at a point with Simms Portex in Keene and the Paper Mill in Brattleboro, VT. Jack joined the Keene Fire Department on January 6, 1961 as a sub assigned to the Ladder Company. He became a regular member of the call company on April 1, 1962. On April 1, 1969 he was promoted to Lieutenant and on April 2, 1977 he was promoted to Captain of the Ladder Company. Jack retired on April 4, 1987 with twenty six years of service to the department and the City of Keene.
John enjoyed his family. His passion for life was life itself. He always made people laugh and for that he was loved by all that knew him. Throughout his life he enjoyed fishing, camping, playing cards with the boys and woodworking.
Mr. Dennis is survived by his wife, Jacqueline A. Dennis of Keene. His four children and their spouses; Timothy J. Dennis and his wife Dawn of Norristown, PA. Tammy D. Perra and her husband Scott of Keene, Gina C. Duffy and her husband Tom of Alstead and James Dennis of Keene. Eight grandchildren; Christina Wells, Stephanie Wells, Christopher Dennis, Brittney Dennis, Nicholas Perra, Nicole Perra, Daniel Duffy and Zacary Dennis. His sister; Margaret Dennis of LA. Cynthia Dejnack and her husband John of Surry. In addition he leaves cousins, nieces and nephews. John is pre deceased by his sister Nancy Jordan of Alton.
In keeping with John’s wishes there are no calling hours. A gathering to celebrate John’s life will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2015 from 12 to 3pm. in the American Legion Hall, Post 4, 797 Court St. Keene, NH. 03431. Burial will be private. Donations can be made in memory of John H. Dennis Jr. to the Keene Fire Department and Rescue, 31 Vernon St. Keene, NH. 03431. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel and Crematories, 44 Maple Ave. Keene, NH. 03431. www.cheshirefamilyfuneralhome.com
