Dennis Verne Dehaan

Dennis Verne DeHaan, 75, of Benson, Minn., died Thursday, January 7, 2021, at Scandi Haven Village in Benson.  A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Zniewski Funeral Home. www.zniewskifuneralhome.com

Dennis Verne DeHaan was born January 31, 1945, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the son of Verne Olin and Helen Maxine (Wheeler) DeHaan.  He was raised in Sioux Falls, where he graduated from Washington High School, Class of 1963.  After high school, Dennis attended Dakota State University in Madison, South Dakota where he graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business.  On November 25, 1966, Dennis was united in marriage to Candace Anne Miller in Sioux Falls.  This union was blessed with 44 years together and a son, Jeffrey.

During his working years, Dennis worked in management at the Elks Club in Madison, SD; Gibson Discount Center in Owatonna, Little Falls, Madison, SD and Benson; and the Benson Municipal Liquor Store.  In 1996 he began working as a Dispatcher and Jailer for the Swift County Sherriff Department, where he remained until his retirement in 2010.

Dennis was an active member of the Benson Fire Department from 1976 to 2002.  He was proud to have served with his son, Jeff, for 13 of these years.  During his 26 year tenure with the fire department, Dennis served as Chief, Assistant Chief, and Secretary.  Dennis was also a long-time member of Pilgrim Congregational Church, where he was active on the Church Council.  He was also a member of the Benson Public Library Board and the Benson Hockey Board, where he served as President.

Dennis enjoyed fishing, especially with his son, grandchildren, and brother-in-law.  He also liked to camp in Hobo Park, go bowling and golfing.  Dennis was a traveler and was able to spend many winters in Arizona.  He always enjoyed “Happy Hour” with family and friends and loved spending time in Rapid City helping his brother Jim with his excavation business.  Dennis adored his grandchildren and loved spending time with them.

Dennis passed away Thursday, January 7, 2021, at Scandi Haven Village in Benson.  He attained 75 years, 11 months, and 6 days of age.  Dennis is survived by his son, Jeffrey (Sarah) DeHaan of Benson; his three grandchildren: Morgan, Brennden, and Brady DeHaan; his siblings: Lori (Gary) VanDenBerg of Sioux Falls, SD and Jim (Donna) DeHaan of Piedmont, SD; and his nephew, Chad VanDenBerg of Los Angeles, CA.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Candace “Candy” DeHaan in 2010; and his parents, Verne and Helen DeHaan.

Blessed be the memory of Dennis DeHaan.