Dennis Russell Lutz, 75, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026. He was born on July 29, 1950, in Wheeling, West Virginia, and was raised in Weirton, West Virginia, a son of the late Russell Dennis Lutz and Norma Elaine Marshall Lutz.
He graduated from Madonna High School in 1968 and went on to attend West Virginia University, where he earned both his Bachelor and Master degrees in Speech-Language Pathology. In 1974, Dennis moved to Johnson City, Tennessee, where he began a long and meaningful career at the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center. Over the course of 34 years, he dedicated himself to helping veterans and their families, eventually serving as Chief of Speech Pathology. His work touched countless lives, and he was deeply respected by colleagues and patients alike.
Dennis was a man who truly never met a stranger. Known for his warm personality and ever-present smile, he had a natural way of making everyone feel welcome. He loved his community and especially enjoyed cheering on Science Hill sports, rarely missing a chance to support the teams. More than anything, Dennis treasured time spent with his family. He was an avid supporter of any activity involving his grandchildren, proudly attending their games, events, and milestones. His love for them was constant and unmistakable. Dennis was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Johnson City. Dennis will be remembered for his kind heart, infectious smile, dedication to others, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy of compassion, humor, and generosity will live on in all who knew him.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Carol Lutz; his son, Russell Lutz (Nicole); and his daughters, Whitney Wondergem (Eric), Stacy Lutz, and Sara Lutz. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Tori, Jack, and Sam Lutz, and Avery and Quinn Wondergem, who brought him immense joy. He is survived by one sister and brother-in-law, Paula Kreyenbuhl (Mark) and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Friday, March 27, 2026 from 10:00 AM until 10:45 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 2211 E. Lakeview Drive, Johnson City, Tennessee. Funeral Mass will follow at 11:00 AM with Father Dustin Collins officiating. A Private Committal Service and Inurnment will be held in the Chapel Mausoleum Northside Niche at Monte Vista Memorial Park.
The family would like to express their thanks to the Nursing Staff at the Johnson City Medical Center 3300 Wing for all the love and care that was shown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 2211 E. Lakeview Drive, Johnson City, TN 37601.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the Lutz family by visiting www.montevistafunerals.com.
Arrangements especially for Mr. Dennis Russell Lutz and his family have been made through Monte Vista Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 1900 E. Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN; 423-282-2631.
