Dennis Lawerance Wittnebert Jr.

Dennis came from a proud family of fishermen and spent many years working on the water. The sea was in his blood—it was where he felt most at home. It was a way of life that reflected his grit, love of nature, and deep connection to the coastal community. Before that chapter of his life, he built a strong foundation as a skilled machinist and later as a respected pipe fitter at the Formosa plant. There, he formed lasting friendships and earned the affectionate nickname “Grandpa” from the younger men he mentored. His steady presence, wisdom, and willingness to teach left a mark on everyone he worked alongside.

For the past 25 years, Dennis and his wife, Debbie, made their home on a beautiful stretch of land along the Lavaca Navidad River. Together, they poured their hearts into tending their garden, caring for their land, and creating a peaceful life rooted in love, service of their faith and hard work. After retiring, they found joy in taking trips in their camper, exploring new places, and visiting their children and grandchildren they adored.

Dennis was goofy in the best way, quick with a compliment, and always ready to dance. He had a big heart and an even bigger love for his family. Married to Debbie for nearly 30 years, their bond was the heart of everything they built together.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie, and his five children: Jessica, Zachary (and wife April), Ian (and wife Crystal), Livia, and Molly (and husband Will). He was the proud grandfather of Kaitlin (and husband David), Dalen, Reagan, Ashton, Landon, Layla, Jack, Abigail, Tyler, LoveMael, Coda, Lexi, Layni, and Brodie, and great-grandfather to Harper, Elizabeth, Willa, Emma, Einsley, and Benjamin.

Dennis is also survived by his brother Mark (and wife Lolly) and his sisters Susan (and husband Ronnie), Chrissy (and husband Mike), and Cindy (and husband Gary), along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever remember the warmth, humor, and generous spirit of their Uncle D.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday August 9, followed by a worship service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church, located at 213 E. Austin St. in Port Lavaca, Texas. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Dennis’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Dennis’s honor to Hospice of South Texas at https://hospice.newclientdemo.com/donate/ or simply that you spend time near the water, plant something in the earth, or share a dance with someone you love—just as Dennis would have wanted.

"Tomorrow, I will continue to be. But you will have to be very attentive to see me. I will be a flower, or a leaf. I will be in these forms and I will say hello to you. If you are attentive enough, you will recognize me, and you may greet me. I will be very happy." -Thích Nhất Hạnh

Thoughts and memories may be shared at www.richardsoncolonial.com.