Dennis Ausenhus

Dennis Ausenhus obituary, Ankeny, IA

Dennis Ausenhus

Dennis Ausenhus Obituary

Published by Memorial Services of Iowa at Ankeny Memorial (MSI) on Jun. 22, 2020.
Monday, June 22, 2020, Dennis Ausenhus, loving husband, father of three and grandfather of five, passed away at the age of 67. A visitation will be held 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 5, 2020 at Ankeny Memorial Funeral Home (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd). Due to Covid the visitation will be drive through only and guests are asked to stay in their vehicles. A private funeral will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2020 at the funeral home with burial following at Ankeny Memorial Gardens. Dennis was born on Saturday, August 16, 1952 to Norris "Happ" and Viola (Rinden) Ausenhus. He received his bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture from Iowa State University in 1975 where he also met his wife-to-be, Deb Jensen. They married on August 14, 1976 and raised two sons, Brant and Alex, and one daughter, Meredith. Dennis was always a hard worker enjoying a 30+ year career with Hy-Vee, Inc. He began as a landscape architect in the corporate office and later oversaw real estate, engineering, construction and equipment. After retiring in 2013, he split time in Florida and Iowa pursuing his passions – grandchildren, spending time outdoors, motorcycle trips with friends, travel, drawing, helping kids with home improvement projects, exercising, volunteering at Meals on Wheels and the SMART Ranch ( therapy horse ranch) and bible study. Above all, Dennis was a man of faith, loved his family and was unequivocally kind to everyone he met. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Ralph. He is survived by his wife, Deb; children, Brant (Rachel), Meredith (Nate) and Alex (Janelle); and grandchildren, Ben (12), Abby (9), Kiley (8), Mya (6) and Brody (4). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to JDRF, Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy, or Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. To view the live stream on Facebook on Monday, July 6, 2020: 1. Follow this link to the Memorial Services of Iowa page or copy/paste the address into your internet browser: https://www.facebook.com/Memorial-Services-of-Iowa-1634608780157244/ 2. 'Like' the page. (by doing this you will be able to see on your newsfeed when the livestream starts). 3. On Monday at 11:00 a.m. go to the Memorial Services of Iowa page to view. The live stream will not show up on the page until 11:00 a.m.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Dennis Ausenhus's Guest Book

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July 6, 2020

Rollin & Mary (Rinden) Tonneson posted to the memorial.

July 6, 2020

Margie NELSON posted to the memorial.

July 6, 2020

Diane Anderson posted to the memorial.

Rollin & Mary (Rinden) Tonneson

July 6, 2020

Deb, Brandt, Merideth, Alex, & families,
Our hearts ache as we think of the loss of Denny. My memories go back to our childhood years when I looked forward to going to Aunt Vi's house in Mason and the games we would play with Dennis & Ralph. He was such a genuinely kind person. May Gods peace and the hope we have of eternal life be your comfort in this difficult time.

Margie NELSON

July 6, 2020

I met Dennis when I was the Executive Director of JDRF many moons ago. Unfortunately, Dennis and I had the shared bond of having 2 kids with Type 1 Diabetes. I could always sense the sadness in other parents that always lingers when you learn your children have a disease that you can't kiss and make better. He was such a fine, moral person. I am so sorry that his life was so short. He was and will continue to be in many hearts - one of the good guys that was a rock for many. I was honored to know him. Bless you all! Margie

Diane Anderson

July 6, 2020

So sorry to hear about Dennis. We had hoped to come yesterday but Paul wasn't feeling well

Madelyn Tetmeyer

July 5, 2020

Our sincere sympathy goes out to you, Deb, and your family. We cannot believe this has really happened!

Miriam Pedersen

July 5, 2020

My heart aches for you, Deb. I pray that Jesus will hold you and your family in His loving arms, comforting you and giving you the peace that only He can give. I treasure the memories of Dennis when I was the chair and he was the chair-elect at Holy Trinity Lutheran. Working with him was a joy! He always had a ready smile and a calmness that exuded confidence. I could always count on him for his insight on situations that might arise. He was a great team player but also a great leader. He was a guy that will always be remembered.
Shalom,
Miriam Pedersen

Scott Hatfield

July 5, 2020

Dear Deb and family:

I am so very sorry to hear about Dennis.

I worked with him as an architect on several major projects through the years while he was at Hy-Vee.

He was a wonderful guy and a pleasure to be around. His smile was contagious.

Truly a talented and gifted person and very caring.

A man of integrity.

My thoughts are with you.

Scott Hatfield

Dennis Moon

July 5, 2020

Dennis was always a Gentleman. It has been an honor and privilege to have known him. He will be missed.

nancy siebecker

July 4, 2020

Deb, Brant, Alex, Meredith and your family members,
Dennis was a friendly and helpful neighbor not only to me, but to my husband, Bill, who is now in Starr Memory with 24/7 care givers. While still at home, Dennis took Bill to power squadron and rotary meetings, and was the consummate neighbor ....and friend. At some point I will need to tell Bill of Dennis' passing, but I know it will greatly disturb him as he will remember Dennis' loving kindness. I raise up prayers to God as you celebrate his Christian life and all that he modeled for your futures.
Hugs and Love,
Nancy Siebecker, neighbor in FL

Jon Garnaas

July 4, 2020

Deb, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as Dennis is lifted up, and as you all take comfort that his Spirit will be with you forever.
I had the opportunity to work with Dennis on numerous projects. Memories of his candor, fairness,dry humor, and infectious smile will be lasting. Dennis lived within the definition of "being a good guy" !!

Comfort Planter

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Dale and Karen Matzen

July 2, 2020

Dear Deb, Brant, Meredith and Alex,
Our condolences to all members of your families. Denny was a quiet, considerate friend. He was fun to be around, always had a smile, and was willing to help with anything. He was a great husband, father and grandfather. We know he will be missed so much by family and friends.
Dale and Karen Matzen

Dee Large

July 2, 2020

My deepest sympathies. Dee Large

Tina MASSMAN

July 2, 2020

Deb, Brant, Meredith, and Alex, not only was Dennis someone I reported to, but he became a friend. He was so kind to so many, not only in his working relationships, but family and friends. But, you already know this. He was truly and genuinely kind and fair to all. As all of the tributes on here show, he was well-respected and trusted by all who came in contact with him--he had integrity. It was a blessing to work with him directly as his admin for many years until he retired. Your family has always held a special place in my heart. I wish you peace and many great memories to fall back on. He truly will be missed by many. God received a genuinely good soul. I'm so very sorry for your loss. He loved you all so very much.

Bill Knapp II

July 2, 2020

I first met Dennis in Lamaze class in 1979. We were supposed to be a help to our wives but soon realized we had no idea what we were doing. I had many opportunities to work with Dennis during his Hy-Vee days. While he carefully protected the interest of his company, he was always fair and honest in his dealing. He always had that smile and a big laugh and was just fun to be around. Dennis - I will pray that God blesses your family and friends during this time of sorrow.

Bill Knapp II
West Des Moines, IA

Alan Hayward

July 1, 2020

I attended school with Dennis at Hoover Elementary, Monroe Junior High, and one year at MC High School. It's been said by others, but Dennis really was one of the nicest people you could meet. A quick, easy smile and treated everyone respectfully. I can't help but smile right now while I'm thinking about him. He was that kind of guy. I'm lucky to have known him. My heart goes out to all of you in Dennis' extended family.

Ryan Zimmerman

July 1, 2020

I had the honor of knowing Dennis when I worked at the HyVee corporate office in 2000 and he was one of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dennis and his family.
Ryan Zimmerman

Harley Thornton

July 1, 2020

Dennis was a true friend and I deeply valued our relationship, back to when he first started his career with Hy-Vee. I've had many excellent clients during my career, but none better than Dennis. I'm sure God tapped his talents immediately after his arrival.

Greater Glory Basket

a loved one

Sent Flowers

Tommie Mann

July 1, 2020

Denny was one of the kindest people I ever knew. We shared many good memories in high school and I always loved catching up with him through the years. My deepest sympathies to Deb and the family as they deal with the loss of Denny in the days ahead. May God give you the strength to remember the good as you grieve.

Marlene Polmear

July 1, 2020

We mourn your loss and think of you with love. I know Dennis was a fabulous family man and a loving grandfather.

Marlene and Rick Polmear and family

Doug Angell

July 1, 2020

So sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family

Ruth Comer

July 1, 2020

Deb, Brant, Meredith and Alex -- I am so sorry for your loss. Dennis was one of the smartest, funniest, kindest and most honorable people I have ever had the privilege of knowing. Working with him, I learned a great deal about how to negotiate in a way that respects the needs of others and arrives at win-win results. I'll always remember fascinating conversations on a wide range of topics that usually ended with both of us laughing. I wish you peace and comfort in the knowledge that as accomplished as Dennis was in so many areas, he considered his family to be his greatest achievement and blessing. ~ Ruth Comer

Rhonda Solem Couch

July 1, 2020

I am so sorry to hear of Dennis's passing. I remember him at Trinity and high school as a very kind person who was active in the church. My prayers are with you and your family through this difficult time.

John Mann

July 1, 2020

So sorry to hear this news. Dennis was a wonderful man and mentor to me. He was a very strong leader as our department head but still knew how to have a great time. Helped me move a few times when we lived in Chariton and had a lot of fun playing rec league volleyball. Our prayers go out to Deb and family during this time. He will truly be missed by many.
John and Lori Mann

Jay Sheahan

July 1, 2020

So very sorry for your family's loss

Andrew Burg

July 1, 2020

So sorry for your loss. Such kind, caring and intelligent children and grandchildren come as a result of a great father. Thank you to the family for the role they play in bettering others' lives.

Amanda (Fielding) Bell

July 1, 2020

So sorry to hear of Denny's passing, many fond memories with your family over the years. Definitely another one gone too soon. Love to all.

Cyndy Hockman

June 30, 2020

Brant, Rachel, Ben, Abby, Mia
Deb, Alex, Meredith and families,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Praying that you find peace and comfort through God's saving grace. May special family memories, fun times and love that you shared live in your hearts forever and bring you peace.

Cyndy & Steve Hockman

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Sign Dennis Ausenhus's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

July 6, 2020

Rollin & Mary (Rinden) Tonneson posted to the memorial.

July 6, 2020

Margie NELSON posted to the memorial.

July 6, 2020

Diane Anderson posted to the memorial.