Dennis Ray Sears passed away on May 15th, 2023, at the age of 68 in his hometown of Des Moines. Denny battled some health issues the final couple years of his life, and lung cancer finally got the best of him. But if you knew Denny, he never complained. He faced every health issue head on and persevered with a sense of humor we all loved.
Denny was born on January 26th, 1955, the son of Jean and Howard Sears. He was the youngest of 4 children. He attended Roosevelt High School and was a star on the football field, basketball court, and baseball diamond.
Denny’s love for sports continued into fatherhood where he loved coaching and watching his son John and stepson Nick play sports. He loved his boys so much. Watching them play sports and coaching them was one of the biggest joys of his life.
Denny had an infectious personality, a kind soul and gentle heart. His sense of humor and charm could light up a room and put a smile on anyone’s face.
In his spare time Denny loved playing golf, slow pitch softball, sand volleyball and bowling. He was a natural at almost everything he did, multi-talented. He loved a good steak, Chinese food, hot tamales, and mint chocolate chip malts.
Denny had numerous careers in his life, but he was most proud of his work as a special education teacher at Ruby Van Meter. He loved working with kids, and they loved him. He had a special gift.
Denny loved his family more than anything, and that family grew when he became a grandpa to Adrienne, Jack, Sam and Audrey.
He was so proud of his boys, John and Nick, and the fathers they had become. Being a grandpa was something Denny cherished, and he spoiled his grandchildren.
Denny would want people to always remember the good times, be positive and kind to others. Time flies, enjoy life to the fullest.
He is survived by his son John and his wife Maria, stepson Nick and his wife Jill; 3 siblings, brother Don Sears (Sandy), brother Chuck Sears and sister Linda Pearson (Doug). Plus, 4 incredible grandchildren, nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and many cousins.
Rest in peace Denny Sears, a great man, wonderful father, brother and grandpa. He was loved by so many and will truly be missed.
Denny’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Every Step hospice care and the Kavanaugh House who were instrumental in Denny’s care during his final weeks.
Private burial and service with family will be held later this summer.
