Melvin L. Dennis

Dennis, Melvin L., 87, of Santa Ana passed peacefully into the loving arms of his Savior Jesus Friday Oct. 8 after an extended illness. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Juanita; their 2 daughters, (and spouses), Tressa Barnett (Bill) and Carol Reimer (Ron), and six grandchildren, Matthew Reimer, Noel Reimer, Brooke Reimer, Michelle Friske (John), Dennis Silva (Nicola), Brian Silva (Martha), and eight great-grandchildren. Melvin is also survived by beloved sister-in-law, Ruby Scott and brother-in-law, Marvin Riley (Elaine) as well as beloved nephews and nieces. Born April 30, 1923 in Minco, Oklahoma to John and Emma Dennis. Melvin served in the U.S. Army as a Combat Infantryman in WW2 in the Normandy, Rhineland, Northern France, and Central Europe Campaigns. He participated in the historic invasion of Omaha Beach at Normandy on D-day. He received 5 Bronze Stars and one Silver Star, as well as medals for American Theater Service, European- African - Middle Eastern Service, Good Conduct, and two Purple Hearts. After being honorably discharged, he and Juanita met in Oklahoma , then married and moved to California in 1956 to raise their family. Melvin's long career in truck driving earned him numerous awards for safety, including over 2 million miles driven without accident. Melvin loved the Lord and served faithfully in many areas throughout the years at Faith Evangelical Free Church in Santa Ana and at Bethany Bible Fellowship in Westminister Ca., where his love of children led him to serve in the Sunday School toddler ministry and as their church bus driver. Memorial services will be held in the Chapel at Westminster Memorial Park 14801 Beach Blvd., Westminster Ca. Thursday Oct. 21 at 12:00 pm. Followed by a graveside gathering. Reception of love at 1:30 at Bethany Bible Fellowship 13431 Edwards, Westminster , Ca. Viewing will be held Wednesday Oct. 20th at 5-8 pm.