Dennis L. Denney Sr.

Omaha -Dennis Lee Denney Sr. was born on February 21, 1950, in Onawa, IA, to Cecil L. Denney and Ruby R. (Ravnsborg) Denney. He peacefully passed away on July 7, 2024, at the Norfolk, Nebraska, Veteran’s Home after a prolonged illness.

In 1971, Dennis married Katherine Treiber, and they were blessed with two children, Valeria L. Henderson and Dennis L. Denney Jr.

Dennis's industrious spirit emerged early; at seven, he began his career as a newspaper delivery boy for the Le Mars Sentinel. He worked for the city removing gum from the town’s water fountains. When his family relocated to Sioux City, IA, at thirteen, he continued his work with the Des Moines Register, eventually managing delivery operations before enlisting in the Army.

During the Vietnam War, Dennis served as a Traffic Analyst with the Eighth Radio Research Field Station, earning the Bronze Star for his meritorious service and problem-solving abilities in challenging combat conditions from June 1970 to June 1971. He received the Army Commendation Medal in November 1970. In addition, he was decorated with the National Defense Service Medal, 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Meritorious Unit Commendation for his outstanding exemplary service. Following his service in Vietnam, Dennis reenlisted with the Army Security Agency Field Station in Augsburg, Germany, where he combined military service with running an antique and art dealership. After an honorable discharge in 1975, Dennis returned to Sioux City, IA, assuming the role of Agency Director at the Des Moines Register.

In 1976, Dennis and his family moved to Fremont, NE, where he established a successful courier business, serving prominent clients such as Gambles, Kellogg’s, Curtis Mathis, and The Omaha World Herald. By 1980, they returned to Sioux City, IA, where Dennis resumed his role as Agency Director at the Des Moines Register while also managing a moving and storage company. In 1991, Dennis founded Dennex, expanding his courier operations across five states. In 2007, he relocated to Omaha, NE, launching Shuttle Guys Courier Service, which he operated until his retirement in 2020.

In 2006, while on a tour in Ireland, Dennis met Debbie, whom he married on September 21, 2008, blending their families and embarking on numerous travels throughout Europe and the United States.

Dennis was a dedicated Lay Pastor in the United Methodist Church. His faith, family and community were central to his life. He was cherished for his witty humor, love of musical and dramatic arts, dramatic television, an appreciation for comedians, Diet Pepsi, olives and pickles. Dennis enjoyed playing cards, reading, dancing, classical music, and was a devoted fan of The Beach Boys. He took pride in his collection of cars, including his beloved 1968 Barracuda fastback, Mercedes vehicles, and Crossfire convertible, Denny cherished his dogs Neal, Coco, and Ruby and was very proud of his Danish and Irish ancestry. 

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his loving wife Deborah, children Valeria Henderson, Dennis (Shaun) Denney Jr., Christopher (Amanda) Hitt, and Jacqueline (Joseph) Lockett, as well as grandchildren Gabrielle Denney, Wyatt and William Lockett, Clara Hitt, and extended family.

Dennis will be deeply missed by his family and a wide circle of friends whose lives he touched. 

 Visitation Monday 5:00 - 7:00 PM at Roeder Mortuary. Funeral Service 11:00 AM Tuesday (7/16/24) at Roeder Mortuary. Interment Omaha National Cemetery. Memorials will be determined by the family.

Roeder Mortuary 11710 Standing Stone - Gretna, NE - 402-332-0090 www.RoederMortuary.com