Dennis J. Vilela

Hawaii, lived a life filled with dedication to his family, his career, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the many people whose lives he touched along the way.

Dennis attended Pittsburg State University, earning degrees in Accounting and

Marketing. During the college years at Pittsburg State, Dennis met the love of his

life, Sherry. What began as a college romance grew into a beautiful 61year marriage filled with

love, family, hard work, and countless memories. Sherry remained by Dennis’s side throughout

their life together and was his beloved wife and partner in all that life brought their way.

Following college, Dennis began a successful career in the oil industry. He worked for many

years in the industry, eventually retiring from Texaco, in Bogata, Colombia in 1999.

Retirement did not slow Dennis down for long. After retiring from Texaco, he opened his own

tax business, where he continued working and serving clients until the time of his death. His

strong work ethic, dedication, and knowledge were hallmarks of his professional life.

Dennis was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Sherry

Vilela, of the home, their three children: Dennis J. Vilela Jr. and wife, Krista, of Kansas;

Kerry Vilela Brown and husband, Kelley, of Georgia; and Nicholas Vilela and wife, Laura,

of Missouri. He is also survived by his brother Randy Vilela (Susan) of Kansas and his sister Doreen Geiger (late Dave Geiger) of Washington.

He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren: Tanner Grant, Emma Vilela, Jackson Vilela,

Nicholas Vilela, Alaina Vilela, and Luke Vilela. His family was one of his greatest legacies,

and the love and memories they shared with him will continue to live on through the generations.

Dennis will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his dedication to his family, and the

life he and Sherry built together over 61 years of marriage. From meeting as college students at

Pittsburg State University to raising their family and sharing a lifetime of experiences, Dennis

and Sherry created a lasting love story that will always be a treasured part of their family’s

history.

Dennis leaves behind a legacy of love, perseverance, family, and commitment. He will be deeply

missed by his beloved wife, his children and their spouses, his grandchildren, extended family,

friends, former colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His life was a gift to his family, his memory a treasure, and his love will remain in their hearts

forever.

Rest in peace, Dennis.

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 24, 2026 at St. Coleman Catholic Church in Pompano Beach, Florida.