Dennis Toms

Dennis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He shared 54 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Debbie, and together they built a life centered around family, hard work, and countless cherished memories. He was deeply proud of his children, Dennis (Rachel) Toms, Dawn (Joe) Curosh, and Dan Toms (Maghen), and especially enjoyed the time he spent with his grandchildren, Mary and Leah Toms, Joey and Chloe Curosh, and Matthew Toms.

Dennis proudly served his country as a Corporal in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. His service was marked by courage and dedication, and he was awarded the Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with one campaign star, Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Good Conduct Medal, and Marksman Rifle Badge. His time in the Marines remained an important and meaningful part of his life.

Following his military service, Dennis went on to become co-owner of National Recruiting Service. Outside of work, he enjoyed many simple pleasures, including bowling, horseshoes, riding ATVs, playing pool, and anything involving trains. More than anything, however, Dennis valued time spent with his family. Whether gathered together for an occasion or simply enjoying one another’s company, those moments meant the most to him.

Dennis is also survived by his siblings, Richard (Nancy) Toms, Nancy Hanson, Paul (Monica) Toms, Patty Zawitaj, and Terry Toms; his brother-in-law and dear friend, Brian Jobbe; brothers-in-law, Don, Jay (Debbie), and Bob (Julie) Larson; his sister-in-law, Sandie Toms; lifelong best friend Bill Dodaro; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and many cherished friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Patricia Toms; his sister and brother-in-law, Anne Marie and Mike Olhava; his brother, Roy Toms; brother-in-law, Ed Hanson; sister-in-law, Betty Jobbe; uncle, George Johnson; nephew, Stephen Wegner; and his mother- and father-in-law, Don and Peg Larson.

Dennis will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his proud service to his country, and the many years of memories he leaves behind. His presence will be deeply missed, but the stories, laughter, and time shared with him will remain with those who loved him.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church, 500 Northgate Drive, Dyer, Indiana 46311. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to make a donation in Dennis’ honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, his favorite charity. Thank you for helping us celebrate his life by supporting a cause that meant so much to him.