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Dennis Michael "Denny" Huiras
Dennis Michael "Denny" Huiras
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Dennis Huiras Obituary
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**Dennis "The Navigator" Huiras**
With a twinkle in his eye and a knack for steering through life's turbulence, Dennis "The Navigator" Huiras charted his final course to the great beyond on March 16, 2024, in the sunny skies of Palm Desert, California. Born on July 8, 1938, in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, Dennis spent 85 adventure-filled years as a true captain of his soul.
Dennis set sail with the US Navy in 1957, cruising through the ranks to First Class Petty Officer. He navigated the choppy waters of North Island, braved the icy blasts of Adak Alaska, and kept his cool in the heat of Glynco Georgia. His service earned him a treasure chest of medals, including the coveted National Defense Service Medal-twice over!-and the Good Conduct Award, also with a double helping.
After swapping his sea legs for landlubber life, Dennis dove into the jungles of Vietnam, where he engineered air traffic control systems with the precision of a Swiss watch for the 1st Air Cavalry Division. Post-tour, the Federal Aviation Administration scooped him up to keep the skies friendly over Southern California, until his final sign-off in 1995.
Dennis enjoyed a retirement filled with sunsets in Del Mar, California, with his first mate, Yvonne, by his side. A faithful crew member of St. James Catholic Church in Solana Beach, he was the lifebuoy of the party, always ready to drop anchor for "cocktail hour."
Remembered for his boundless generosity, Dennis leaves a wake of love and laughter. His fleet includes his wife Yvonne; his trusty shipmates and brothers Marvin, Gary, Donald; his sister, the ever-watchful lighthouse, Diane; his first officers, Sons Michael and Paul; his navigator-in-training daughter, Denise; and his deckhands, grandchildren Alex, Zane, Ethan, Grant, Cole, and Kyra. Preceding him on the voyage to the great mystery were his parents, Roman and Gertrude, and his brother, Roman.
As we set our compasses to celebrate Dennis's remarkable voyage, details of his bon voyage party will be charted soon. Fair winds and following seas, dear Navigator-you've earned your eternal shore leave.
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I hope this playful obituary brings a smile and honors Dennis's adventurous spirit!
9 Entries
Bob & Diane Snider
June 3, 2024
Diane and I were good friends of Denis and Yvonne for over fity years. We boated together with our families and at times triveled together on vacations. Dennis and I played many, many rounds of golf over the years while Yvonne and Diane would go to the local shows. Always friends, always will be missed. Prayers to the entire family. Bob & Diane
Joseph Jarvis
April 27, 2024
A wonderful obituary Mike...your father would be proud of you,,,Joe jarvis
Debra Kreiger
April 3, 2024
We will always remember our trip from Southern California to Oregon with uncle Dennis at the helm of his RV. He made us laugh with his variety of hats and his outfits! We had the time of our lives. So glad we shared that experience. RIP Dennis. Love Deb and Scott and Jason
Bob Knapp
April 2, 2024
Dennis and I first met at LA Center. We, as trainees, became fast friends. He guided me through our first taining problems that kept me in the Air Traffic Control system for a wonderful career. He was the best man at my wedding and we had our wedding rehersal shindig at his and Yvonne's home. We spent many times together at work and evenings by our pools. He was a truley wonderful man and a true friend. I will miss him.
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Ronnie Le Fevre
April 2, 2024
Growing I knew Dennis through my mom Gail Lundgren. Every year we would make the drive to visit Dennis and Yvonne at their Del Mar home. Growing up playing baseball Dennis had a real big heart for the Minnesota Twins and I remember him taking us to the garage to show and give us baseball cards. Dennis always had a way of making us laugh and bringing family around with open arms and that is something that I will always remember. RIP Dennis, you will be greatly missed.
Kevin Boudreau
April 1, 2024
Have known Dennis and the family for 56 years when they moved in 2 doors down. Dennis introduced me to golf and thought I was uncoordinated but I was a lefty golfing right handed. Also had us water skiing and other adventures. Created lifelong friendships with the family and have been intertwined with Paul and I being each other´s best man. Loved Dennis´ energy and laughter. Here´s to a smooth landing Our love to you all, Kevin and Patty
Doug & Linda Krueger
April 1, 2024
Dennis was one of a kind. He was so much fun to be around. I remember the time I went with my trucker husband Doug , going through California, we visited and stayed a few days. Dennis was proud to have that semi parked in front of the house and Denise was so excited to sit in the big truck and blow the horn. It's the small memories that hold dear to our hearts! Dennis will be truly missed! Oh how the cousins are partying together now! Hugs & prayers to all,
Elliot Garcia
April 1, 2024
Heavenly Father, creator of the seas, Bless us as we assemble for this most solemn remembrance. We give you thanks for all your servants who go to sea in ships and those who have paid the supreme sacrifice by giving their lives in the service of their nation.
Denise R Huiras
April 1, 2024
NAILED IT !!!!
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