Dennis James Welzien

Dennis James Welzien, 74, of Henderson, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family, on August 30th, 2022. Dennis was born on March 19th, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, and was raised by his loving parents in Griffith, Indiana. Dennis was a proud Griffith High graduate, where he played football, and as of recently, still held the longest shot-put distance record. Dennis attended courses at Indiana University before enlisting in the U.S. Army, and deploying for a full tour in Pleiku, Vietnam. Dennis served as a flight engineer on a Sikorsky Skycrane, where he delivered heavy weaponry to fighting positions throughout the valley. His favorite part of the mission was flying care packages and steaks to soldiers in the field.

After returning home from Vietnam, Dennis married his beautiful bride and queen, Cheryl Girman, on October 30th, 1971. While starting his family, Dennis began his 20+ year career at Amoco Oil Refinery, rising to the position of Chief Operator. Upon retiring in 2000, Dennis and Cheryl moved to Henderson, Nevada, to be closer to their adult children living throughout the west coast. Dennis was a proud lifetime member of the Veterans of America, Henderson Chapter 1076.

Dennis loved being with his family, spending time with his rescued pets, and hanging out with friends while dancing and listening to his favorite band. Dennis was a lifetime Chicago Bears and Vegas Golden Knights fan.

Preceded in death by his loving parents, Wallace Welzien and Marguerite Welzien. Dennis is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Cheryl (Girman), loving daughter Dawn (Takeo) Sasaki, loving sons, Eric and Adam Welzien, loving granddaughters Ashley, Kaylee, and Alyssa, loving grandsons, Matthew, Alec, Steven, Kameron, and Brendan.

A Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 10th, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary, 800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015, followed by a catered reception from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Henderson, chapter 1076, or any local pet shelter or rescue.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmboulderhighway.com for the Welzien family.