75 years old born in Burlington Wisconsin, but lived most of his life out in Rockford Illinois. Passed away surrounded by his sister Diane Degrave, and niece Candice (Nicholas) Degrave-Peterson in his home, after a very short illness, on Dec. 13th 2018. Dennis was very happy and fortunate to have his brothers and sisters make it up to be by his side in the final hours, survived by brothers, Don DeGrave, Doug (Phyllis) DeGrave, Duane (Elsie) DeGrave, David Degrave. Sisters Debra (Gary) Gist, Diane DeGrave, Donna DeGrave Doby . Along with tons of nieces, nephews, Great nieces and Great nephews. Predeceased by Mother and Father Henry "Hank" and Betty DeGrave, nephew Christopher James DeGrave, and sister in Law Kim Taylor-DeGrave. Dennis started his life with many difficult complications in his life that never stopped him. He was born with a disability that made one arm shorter then the other and only 4 fingers on each hand but you would never know it because he never complained or made excuses. He started his career first as a toy seller/ maker at Triad toys in Rockford Illinois. then went onto working at Bowlmor Lanes where he also become an avid Bowler. Dennis retired from CamCar Textron as not only a maintenance worker, but he also proved himself as a machine operator.He was also a member of the LLL Society on 9th street and 15th ave in Rockford Illinois for many years, I know one of the things that he never missed was the annual LLL society corn boil every year, having a few drinks, dancing and enjoying the day with friends and family. This is where we get to show what the meaning of family meant to Dennis, Not only did he help raise everyone of his brothers and sisters he held down the chaos down at the home front while his brothers each served in each one of the four services. He did not stop there, this man after working long hard days came home and helped take care of a cranky niece of his who would never settle down till she got in his arms. Great-nieces and nephews would also figure out that Dennis was the one to get to watch them, because not only would they be spoiled they would never ever forget unconditional love. This is why Dennis is such an amazing man, he never had a bad thing to say about anyone or anything he took everything one stride at a time. Dennis was always there for others and never asked for anything in return. I know he will live in each and everyone's heart that he has touched.In lieu of flowers please send to Northern Illinois Hospice, we could never thank them enough for their love and support
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