Dennis Arthur Wilson, Jr., 77, of Greensburg passed away peacefully on January 12, 2022 at Aspen Place Health Campus. Dennis was born on May 26, 1944, in Logansport, IN, to Dennis Arthur Wilson, Sr. and Lois (Felder) Wilson. He graduated from Bremen High School, Bremen, IN (1962); Hanover College, Hanover, IN (BA 1966); and Purdue University (MS 1970). Following his Hanover graduation, Dennis married Susan Viehe, Glenwood Springs, CO, and taught math at Hanover High School while Susan finished her degree. The couple moved to Greensburg to begin their teaching careers. For 34 years, Dennis taught physics, mathematics, computer science and driver's education in a way that made everything “intuitively obvious to the most casual observer”. Dennis was a demanding instructor but also enjoyed sharing a good laugh with his students; “hence, female chickens” he was a well-liked and respected teacher. Dennis enjoyed woodworking, HO model railroading and motorcycle touring, traveling through 45 U.S. states.
Following his retirement in 2001, Dennis became more involved in community activities. He was a founding member of the Greensburg Optimist Club and was a 16-year member of the Indiana Motorcycle Safety Commision. Dennis served on the boards of the Decatur County Historical Society, the Arts and Cultural Council, the Decatur County Community Foundation and the YMCA. He was a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church, serving as an Elder and a Trustee.
In addition to his wife, Susan, Dennis is survived by his sister Denilyn (Jack) Jordan, Norman, OK; his two children, David A. Wilson, Greensburg, and Kathy (Morgan) Thomas, Franklin, IN; and five grandchildren, Joseph Wilson, Samantha Wilson, Willa Thomas, Arthur Thomas, and Oscar Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A private inurnment was held on January 21st at the South Park Columbarium. A Celebration of Life service is planned for Saturday, March 5th, at 1 pm, at the First Presbyterian Church, Greensburg. The Revs. Garrett and Marena Vittorio-Schindler will officiate. There will be a visitation/reception following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer Association, the Decatur County Community Foundation or the First Presbyterian Church. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.gilliland-howe.com.
