Dennis had Basic at Fort Hood, TX, AIT at Fort Lewis, WA, trained on a 90 mm recoilless rifle, arrived in Vietnam by ship, and served in the Vietnam Central Highlands.
He was a patriot. It would upset him when people did not stand for the flag he fought for. He was proud of his service despite how he was treated when he came home.
When we dated, he showed his love in thoughtful ways. Once he took me on a picnic for my birthday. It was on the river bank near Yankton. Did I mention that my birthday is in February? Yes, we ate our lunch in the SNOW!
Due to various ailments he quit sports and stock cars. But Veteran Reunions were a wonderful time to reconnect with fellow comrades and other veterans all across the United States.
He was a very good father and husband. Once when our two sons were squabbling, he explained that was inappropriate behavior. Then told them to tell each other they were sorry and give each other a big hug. Not sure who this was harder on!
Dennis was a common sense person and straight forward. People gravitated to him for his honesty and integrity. They shared their problems with him. He was a good listener letting them come to their conclusions.
He was the most important person in my life. This was also true for our sons, Scott and Brett. He will be remembered and sorely missed.
Kerry A. Otte (wife) and sons Scott A. Otte, Brett A. Otte
