Dennis Stienessen

Dennis Stienessen, age 85, of Willmar, passed away Wednesday morning, April 30, at Cura of Willmar.

Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. followed by the Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 9, at the Church of St. Mary in Willmar. Following the service a luncheon will be served at the Willmar Elks Lodge (222 20th Street SE, Willmar, MN. 56201). Arrangements are entrusted to Peterson Brothers Funeral Home. www.petersonbrothers.com

Dennis was born on July 20, 1939, in Minneota, Minnesota, the son of Henry and Ida (Van Dorpe) Stienessen. He grew up in Minneota and graduated from Minneota High School in 1957. On November 5, 1960, Dennis was united in marriage to Marilyn Davidson. They made their home in Minneota while Dennis was employed at First State Bank. In 1967, they moved to Willmar and Dennis began employment at Pennock Oil Company as the office manager. He later worked as the Assistant County Auditor for Kandiyohi County.

Dennis was a member of the Church of St. Mary and was active with its Boy Scout Troop in his earlier years. He was also active in the Elks Lodge #952, both at local and state levels. He served as the lodge secretary for over 20 years and the MN Elks State Association for over 20 years. He enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, gardening, being outdoors and following all his grandchildren's activities. Dennis was the instigator of his grandchildren’s weekend tradition of baking holiday cookies and caramels for gift bags given to family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Marilyn; one son, Dean (and Beth) Stienessen of St. Cloud; one daughter-in-law, DeAnn Stienessen of Willmar; and four grandchildren, Eliana (and Michael), Cassidy, Tyler and Morgan, besides other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Donald and one son, Michael.