In loving memory of

Dennis L. "Denny" Stange
May 10, 1940 - May 19, 2017

Dennis L. "Denny" Stange, 77, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, May 19, 2017, at his home surrounded by his family.

A celebration of Denny's life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, May 24, 2017, at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 P.M. on Tuesday, May 23, 2017, at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, at a later date.

Dennis Lee Stange was born on May 10, 1940 near Clarence, Iowa, to Raymond H. and Berniece I. (Toerber) Stange. He was a 1958 graduate of Clarence High School and received training with Northwestern Bell Telephone Company. He married Janet Marilyn Walker on October 14, 1962 in Elwood, Iowa. To this union five children were born: Laurie, Lisa, Jeff, Dianne and Brenda.

Denny retired from Northwestern Bell after 30 years, and was a part-time farmer. He was a past board member of the Jackson County Conservation Board, and was a long-time member of the East Iron Hill Community Church where he had formerly served as a board member and was currently serving as the vice president of the cemetery association.

Denny loved anything outdoors including farming, gardening and fishing. He and Janet enjoyed traveling throughout the U.S. with their camper. He was an award winning bowler for team "Dad and the Boys" and wouldn't miss a day of coffee with his buddies. His absolute love was his family and he was happy to tell anyone who would listen about his children and grandchildren.

Those left to honor Denny's memory include his wife, Janet Stange of Maquoketa, IA; children, Laurie (Charles Jennissen) Stange of Shueyville, IA, Lisa (Jon Davidson) Stange of W. Des Moines, IA, Jeff (Kathleen Till Stange) Stange of W. Des Moines, IA, Dianne (Ian) Gutterman of Elmhurst, IL, and Brenda (James) Van Keuren of Mt. Airy, MD; a brother, Ronnie (Karen) Stange of Anamosa, IA; a sister, Carma Jean (Fred) Clark of Jacksonville, FL; a sister-in-law, Rita Stange of Walcott, IA; his mother-in-law, Myrtle Ihrig of Maquoketa, IA; and 12 grandchildren, Jeremy, Lydia, Yuewan, Anna, Elizabeth, Nick, Olivia, Sam, John, Julia, Jay and Emily. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Marlyn Stange.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made directed to the Jackson County Conservation, East Iron Hill Community Church, or the Hope Lodge, 750 Hawkins Drive, Iowa City, IA 52246.

Online Condolences may be left at www.carsonandson.com.

Tributes

Sue Cook wrote on May 24, 2017:

"Janet and family sorry to hear the loss of Denny he was a super great guy with a great smile HUGS all of you. Lee and Sue Cook "

Kevin Kubik wrote on May 24, 2017:

"Lisa and Families, We are sorry to hear of your Father's passing. Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you during this most difficult and saddest of time. We know of how great a man your Father is and will be remembered as. God Bless You ALL. Kevin, Deanna, Lisa H. from Homesteaders Life Investment Department"

Jim Abbott wrote on May 24, 2017:

"JIM ABBOTT Clinton Iowa. I first met Denny while working for Northwestern Bell. I was on the line crew at the time and working with Mick Grennill. Dennie was the nicest person that I had met during my whole working life with the Bell system. Thank you for allowing me to meet him and know him. My condolence to the whole family. "

Dorie Dettmann wrote on May 23, 2017:

"Sharon Dettmann remembers Denny with a smile on his face with the family reunions tossing horseshoes. Our prayers are with the family. Dorie and Sharon Dettmann"

Wayne and Linda Current wrote on May 23, 2017:

"Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Wayne always enjoyed Denny and the boys at their morning coffee club when we would come back to Iowa. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Wayne and Linda Current"

Lois King wrote on May 23, 2017:

"Janet and family, So sorry to hear of Denny's passing. He was a good man with a wonderful sense of humor and could drink more coffee than anyone we have ever known! May your memories of Denny help you during this difficult time, and the Lord bring you comfort and peace. Gary and Lois King"

Jan Hanson wrote on May 23, 2017:

"I didn't know him well, but enjoyed his phone calls to Jeff's office so much, as we would always talk for a few minutes while waiting for Jeff to get back to his office and pick up the call. He was delightful.....always had a sense of humor. Let there be hope....let there be stories...let there be celebration of a life well lived! God bless you, Stange family!"

Dorie Dettmann wrote on May 23, 2017:

"Sharon and Dorie Dettmann would like to share condolences to the Stange family"

Bruce Arneson wrote on May 22, 2017:

"Janet and family, Was saddened to hear of Denny's passing. I have known Denny since he started working with my Dad at the telephone company back in the early sixties. I haven't seen him in many years, but still have very fond memories of this exceptional, kind man. I remember Denny spending the night on our sofa while awaiting Laurie's birth. I remember using his truck to move from 2nd Street to Judson Street on a frigid January day just before my 10th birthday in 1962. Since we were pretty much between houses, and my Mother was without an oven, I remember Janet baking me a birthday cake. Before he was married and started his family, I remember going to spend the night at his parent's farm and helping milk the cows in the morning. Denny was so much fun to be around. I was speaking with my Mother yesterday on her birthday, and she expressed over and over what wonderful friends the Stange's were to her and my Dad. My prayer is the God would grant you comfort in the knowledge that Denny is now seated next to God in Paradise and we can look forward to the day when we will be reunited with him in our heavenly home. He will be in my memory forever as a very special, loving, friendly man. I haven't seen him in many years, but still remember his friendly smile and infectious laugh. God's blessings to the entire family as you rightfully mourn this loss. Bruce & Cynthia Arneson, Mesa, AZ"

Nick Willey wrote on May 22, 2017:

"Thoughts & Prayers are with Jeff Stange & his entire family. Keep the memories close to your heart! "

Judy Rains wrote on May 22, 2017:

"So sorry for your loss, Janet & family! I know you will all miss him very much. Having loved ones in Heaven waiting with open arms always puts a smile in my heart and I pray the same will happen for you! In Christ's love, Judy Rains"

Mark Hovey wrote on May 22, 2017:

"Janet and Family- I have not been back to Maquoketa much for many years and I was saddened to learn of Denny's passing. I remeber packing kids form the Baptisit church in your blue station wagon and heading out. Denny always took on 4-14 teeangers with a smile and compassion. I will cherish those memories and hope you do as well. Mark Hovey"

Christine wrote on May 22, 2017:

"Dear Laurie and Family, Denny was clearly a dear man who was deeply loved by his family. My deepest sympathy to my dear friend Laurie and her entire, wonderful family. Sincerely, Christine Skow"

Penny Nuti (Cleary) wrote on May 22, 2017:

"In agreement with these tributes. Waiting on Dennis was always pleasant, as his smile and warm personality was felt and made a difference in people's lives. Prayers for his family & loved ones. "

Adrian & Bonnie Browne wrote on May 22, 2017:

"So sorry to hear of Denny's passing. He was such a happy friendly man. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family."

Andy and Cheryl Clark wrote on May 22, 2017:

"Janet and Family, We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Denny. He was a great and kind man and always had a smile on his face. I have great memories of babysitting the children and seeing what a great family you were! He will be missed by all who knew him. Andy and Cheryl (Arterberry) Clark"

Andy and Cheryl Clark wrote on May 22, 2017:

"Janet and Family, We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Denny. He was a great and kind man and always had a smile on his face. I have great memories of babysitting the children and seeing what a great family you were! He will be missed by all who knew him. Andy and Cheryl (Arterberry) Clark"

Wendy Scott wrote on May 22, 2017:

"We all mourn the passing from this world of a kind and compassionate man. Denny's willingness to help people whether it be his occupation or in his personal life. He will be missed."

Sherry Joseph wrote on May 22, 2017:

"Dear Stange Family, Prayers, hugs and strength to you. Mr. Stange's kind heart and goodness lives on in you. Blessings, Tim and Sherry (Atienza) Joseph family. "

Vicki Krantz-Shock wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Janet and family, so sorry to hear of Denny's passing. I remember him always stopping by our house to chat with my folks and to enjoy a cup of coffee while doing so. He was such a great guy whom I know will be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all."

Patsy Krantz wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Janet and family So sorry to hear of Denny's passing. I always enjoyed visiting with him when he would stop by for a cup of coffee. He was interesting to talk to and was very interested in any project I might be doing.. His family was always the most important to him and he was proud of them all. A good friend to all. My Deepest sympathy to you all."

Holly Wold wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Janet and family, I never knew him well but Denny always seemed like a gentle man who loved life and his family. Am sorry to hear of his passing Janet. Prayers for strength for you and your family. Holly Wold"

Barbi Notz wrote on May 21, 2017:

"So sorry for your loss. Denny was a great guy!"

Cathy Bailey Pharr TX wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Janet and family - I am so sorry to hear of Denny's passing. I remember visiting your home and what a warm and welcoming place it was. Wish I was there to give you a hug. Denny has a special spot in my memories as a beautiful soul with a smiling face, always eager to help someone."

helen jennings wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Sorry to learn of your loss. My sister, Kathryn & myself were neighbors of the Stanges growing up. Our thoughts are with his immediate family as well as Ron & Carma Jean. Helen Decker Jennings & Kathryn Decker Wilson"

Janet (Brady) Staskal wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Janet and Family, So sorry for your loss. You are all such a wonderful family and I have great memories of you. God bless and my thoughts are with you. Janet (Brady) Staskal"

Molly Hayward wrote on May 21, 2017:

"So Sorry for your Loss? Denny was Always so Friendly and a Joy to wait on, when I was waitressing. He will be forever Missed."

Kenny and Pam Bowman wrote on May 21, 2017:

"So sorry for your loss Denny will be missed by all. Kenny and Pam Bowman "

Kerry schepers wrote on May 21, 2017:

"We have so many memories around family meals....your folks represent love on so many levels. Find strength in family...you have an awesome legacy. Hugs and prayers....and much admiration. Daryl and Kerry Schepers and family"

Dee Ewing wrote on May 21, 2017:

"My condolences for the family. Dee Ewing. "

Linda Holmgren wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Janet and family-please accept my sympathy for your loss-it's so hard to lose a loved one, not matter the age or cause. May he rest peace and may God give you his love and comfort when it is so needed!"

Denise and Larry Zirkelbach wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Dearest Janet, Laurie, Lisa, Jeff , Diane amd Brenda, Our hearts are broken at the news of Dennys passing. Our whole family has such great and fond memories of Denny, and ALL your beautiful family. Denny is a wonderful, caring man with a heart of gold, willing to give the shirt off his back, to help people. One of our fav memories was when Denny and Janet agreed to babysit Jenny when she was 3. Janet had an errand to run and left Denny with Jen...He was playing with her but got caught up in a football game and while unaware of Jennys every move, he was partisipating with her in a little tea party. But at one point, he stopped sipping his tea, to question where this 3year old would be getting the tea water. AHAHAHAHA, YEP, it turned out to be toilet water. WE'VE NEVER STOPPED LAUGHING, even all these years, we talk about Jenny, Denny and the famous Pee Party. Well, so many other wonderful memories but suffice to say, Denny has been greatly loved and appreciated by so many. I KNOW he's in peace, so I pray peace for all of you as you celebrate his wonderful life. MUCH LOVE TO ALL OF YOU, DENISE AND LARRY ZIRKELBACH "

Nancy Parson wrote on May 21, 2017:

"So very sorry to hear about Denny's passing. He was a great guy. My thoughts and prayers to you all."

Kathy and Pat McCloy wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Denny was a great man! So generous and great sense of humor. He will surely be missed. Many prayers to all. "

Nancy Derganz wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Janet and Family. So sorry for your loss. Prayers to your family. We love living next door to Dennis and Janet. Dennis will be miss dearly."

Nancy Derganz wrote on May 21, 2017:

"Janet and Family. So sorry for your loss . Dennis will be miss Dearly.. "

Alvin Barker wrote on May 20, 2017:

"God Bless Dennis and family Dennis was always smiling, and was happy go lucky. Im sure he will be greatly missed. Alvin & Shirley Barker"

Barb meyer wrote on May 20, 2017:

"God must have needed an angel an had a job only you could do so he called you home. I will never forget the conversations at the diner n the laughs you hold a special place in my heart. My thoughts n prayers are with all of you may the angels hold you close in their loving arms while those who love you will hold you close in their hearts forever . You have my deepest sympathy "

Lu Ann Elkins wrote on May 20, 2017:

"Janet & family, we are sorry to hear of Denny's passing Tom and Lu Elkins"

John & Judy Stein wrote on May 20, 2017:

"Janet & family, we are very sorry to learn of Denny's passing. May God bless his eternal soul. John & Judy Stein"

The Lowe Family wrote on May 20, 2017:

"I'm so very sorry for your loss, please know your entire family remains close to our hearts and in our prayers during this difficult time. "

Nanci Clark wrote on May 20, 2017:

"Janet and family... so sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you"

Marcia Dettmann Killien wrote on May 20, 2017:

"I'm so sorry to hear of Denny's illness and death. Our sympathy to all the family. Marcia Dettmann Killien"

Peg Lehman Bowen wrote on May 20, 2017:

"Denny was a fun, friendly man, I remember him from the phone company. But the one thing that stood out was seeing him around the holidays shopping with his daughters. He would patiently sit and watch them shop enjoying every minute! You could see the love he felt for his girls and how happy he was to have them all home. "

Cecil & Sheila Bentley wrote on May 20, 2017:

"We are so sorry to hear of Dennis's death. Our sympathy goes out to all of the family.May he rest in peace. Cecil and Sheila Bentley"

Rex and Dorothy Sanger wrote on May 20, 2017:

"We are so sorry for your loss of this wonderful man who was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, to all who needed a friend. Our sincere sympathy to this dear family."