Dennis D. Dan

Dennis passed with his beloved service dog, Pepper, on his lap and his son, Scott, by his side. Dennis was a beloved member of the community and was known for his close bond with his service dog, Pepper. Together, they frequented various places, including Starbucks in the mall and the VA, where they were loved by everyone they encountered. Dennis and Pepper volunteered three times a week reading with kindergartners at Lafayette Meadows Elementary in Southwest Allen County. He had a passion for creating intricate works of art out of wood in his workshop in his garage. His talent was evident in the beautiful pieces he crafted, which he frequently would gift to his friends, family, and those who helped him along the way.

Dennis is survived by his son, Scott Dan, and his daughters, Melissa Dan and her son, Ethan Murphy, and Becca Wegner and her daughters, Cassidy Wegner and Phoebe Parmenter.. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marsha Dan, who passed away December 17, 2012.

Dennis served in the Air Force from 1959 to 1963, where he was trained to service the F105 autopilot systems. Unfortunately, he was medically discharged after sustaining injuries in an accident while helping a friend fix up his car. A car jack failed and fell on his friend and Dennis lifted up the car, tearing his clavicle and shoulder area while freeing his friend that was trapped underneath the car.

In his career, Dennis was a salesman and a true entrepreneur at heart. He and his wife opened and operated a pet shop, Noah's Ark. in Northcrest Shopping Center, which became a well-known establishment in the community until its closure many years later.

Dennis belonged to the Temple Congregation Achduth Vesholom on Old Mill Road and found comfort talking with the Rabbi when times were difficult.

In his free time, Dennis enjoyed riding his recumbent bike with Pepper trekking right along beside him, spending countless hours in his woodwork shop, as well as watching endless youtube woodworking videos.

In lieu of a service, a celebration of life will be held at his son’s residence, which was also his home for the past three years, for friends, family, and those who knew and loved him.

If you wish to make a donation, please do so at http://www.icandog.org which is an organization which provides free service animals for injured veterans.