Dennis Alan Deering

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Portland State University

Dennis Deering Obituary

Deering, Dennis Alan 69 Sept. 27, 1943 Sept. 09, 2013 Dennis Alan Deering was born Sept. 27, 1943 to Esther and Peter Deering in Portland and passed away Sept. 9. He was at home with his loving family when he passed shortly after a cancer diagnosis. Dennis was known for his commanding voice and soft heart. He treasured his family and his greatest joy was his children and grandchildren. A native Oregonian, he attended Grout Elementary followed by Cleveland High School and graduated from Portland State University in 1969. In 1968, Dennis married the love of his life, Elizabeth Law, and they raised their family together in Southeast Portland. He was part owner and vice president of Berg Evans Chain Company for 35 years and enjoyed early retirement at age 55. A legendary salmon fisherman of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, he enjoyed "working" as a fishing guide and Willamette Jet Boat driver after retirement. This dedicated family man, friend and entrepreneur is remembered for his high standards, loyalty, fairness, humor, compassion and special way of connecting deeply with many different people. Leading by example, he taught his family to work hard, be prepared, honor your word and cherish your time together. The traditions he nurtured created tight family bonds and lifelong friendships that live on and connect all who knew him. Dennis is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; children, Peter (Dawn), Nicole (Don Houghton) and Darcy (Richard Jamison); grandchildren, Henry, James, Brooke, Grace, Katherine and Madeline; brother, David; and many friends including Harry Nakamura. A celebration of life will be held from 10-1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, 2013, at Eastmoreland Golf Club. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cleveland High School Alumni Association or a charity of your choice.

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Published by The Oregonian on Sep. 22, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Dennis Deering

13 Entries

NANCY WEST

September 16, 2021

I am still so sorry.

Mary (DuDois) Moody

December 28, 2013

I literally grew up with Dennis from 4th grade at Grout Elementary School through Cleveland High School. We shared similar backgrounds and were special friends. My friend Patsy just sent me the obituary from The Oregonian. I was saddened to learn of Dennis' passing. I am glad that he and I had a nice visit at our 50th HS Reunion a few summers ago. I hope he is at peace with his Heavenly Father.

Mickey Oakley

September 30, 2013

Dennis was ahead of his time in the work/life balance arena. If a family event conflicted with work he was always open to finding a workable solution. I am honored to have been an employee of his at Berg Evans. He influenced me in many areas and gave me opportunities to learn and grow. He will be missed. My son's reply when he heard the news was so simple, yet so true. "They don't make 'em like him anymore...."

September 28, 2013

All our sympathies and prayers are with you. Pat and Lana Miles

September 24, 2013

Dear Liz, Peter, Nicole and Darcy, What a beautifully written tribute to Dennis. You described him perfectly with your words. Mike and Charell

Cheryl Lewis

September 24, 2013

So sorry to hear of your families loss. I worked with Dennis many of those years he was with Berg Evans and remember the enjoyment he had Hosting and serving others at the Fun family picnics at Oaks Park. He had such a way of enjoying life and family. Those that worked with him here at Martin Sprocket still bring up his name with good memories. God bless and surround you and yours with His love and comfort. Cheryl Lewis

Chris & Robert Roy

September 23, 2013

Dear Liz and family,
There aren't words enough to tell you how sorry we are to hear of the loss of your forever partner and spouse, father and grandfather. In my recollections of many years past, Dennis was such fun, the optimist and the organizer ~ the true friend. Hold warm and wonderful life memories close to you always.

Lynelle Hansen

September 23, 2013

I am honored to have known Dennis Deering. I was his neighbor and friend. I lived abroad for a period of time and the connection with such beautiful neighbors was one of the major reasons I moved home. I will truly miss Dennis. I will do my best to promote his memory. As long as someone on this earth remembers you and speaks of you, it carries the touch of life forward.
With love and support for his family,
Lynelle Hansen

Nancy West

September 22, 2013

Dearest Liz, We were so shocked to read of Deniss's death in the newspaper. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at the saddened news. Please give us a call sometime.

Carol Pierce Thoreson

September 22, 2013

I am so saddened to read of Dennis passing. We were neighbors on 34th street. I went to Grout and Cleveland with him. He was such fun to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

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