Dennis Frank DeRose

"So, (long pause) Well Hello!"
Dennis Frank DeRose passed away on January 21, 2019 from complications due to surgery. He was born on August 21, 1952 to Louie and Lena (Carnesecca) DeRose. He was very proud of his Italian heritage. He graduated from Springville High School and enlisted in the US Navy where he was assigned to the USS Ponchatula stationed at Pearl Harbor. He married Debra Thorn DeRose, his high school sweetheart, on Oct. 17, 1972. They began their life together in paradise until his ship was deployed to Viet Nam. They were sealed to their two sons in the Salt Lake Temple on their fifteenth wedding anniversary. Upon his honorable discharge, he attended Utah Technical College and graduated a Journeyman Plumber. He established his small, family business, DFD Plumbing, 30 years ago which is recognized for premier plumbing services throughout the intermountain area.
Dennis was a giant of a man. He was larger than life. He was a devoted husband and Patriarch of his family. His greatest accomplishment was raising two honorable sons who are his best friends. They shared his passions, goals, and dreams. He loved hunting, fishing, family BBQ’s, riding his Harley Davidson, playing canasta, collecting fall leaves, putting the shine on the Greechie (his boat), Flaming Gorge, Moto Cross, doing woodwork, strumming the guitar, and most importantly being there for his grandkids varied activities. He was always present in our lives. Any time spent with family was “the best” time. He liked playing tricks on his friends and acting innocent. His reputation as an outdoor sportsman is notorious. He was a master mechanic who loved to put the “tune” on things. He believed in hard work, honor, integrity, justice, and fairness. He was generous to a fault and gave anonymous service to many.
He was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints, serving in Bishoprics, High Priest Quorum, Scouts, Stake Young Mens President, Primary Teacher, and other callings. He found peace and joy in the temple. He loved the Lord and served faithfully.
He leaves behind his wife Debra; two sons: Nathan (Dianna) and Aaron (Colleen); 11 grandchildren: Dylanee, Kambry, Easton, Taiya, Stockton, Taidge, Ashton, Kallie, Brynlee, Kinsley, and Dallin; Brother: Gary (Susan) DeRose; Sisters: Susan (Wayne) Anderson, Dyan Campbell and Karen Knowlton; loving in-laws; many adored nieces & nephews; and countless cronies. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Randy. He leaves behind a legacy we are all proud of.
Viewing will be held Thursday, January 31st from 5:30-8:30 pm at Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary located at 1007 W South Jordan Pkwy, South Jordan, UT and again on Friday, February 1st from 10:30-11:30 am at the Corner Canyon Stake Center, 13366 S 1300 E, Draper, UT. Funeral services will take place on Friday, February 1st at 12:00 noon in the Chapel of same building.
Until we meet again, farewell to the Geester, Gee, Gee-Gee, Big D, Uncle D, Uncle Desniss, Smoke Master, Road Capitan, Our Harley Guy, Double D, G-pa, Gpa. Bope, Piska, Moto A, Big Ol’ Face, Teddy Bear, Berf…my love.
“That is all.”
Dennis F. DeRose