Dennis Sbach

Dennis Martin Sbach died unexpectedly on Thursday November 14, 2024, at his home in Houston, Texas at the age of 75.

Dennis was a runner - not just physically, but also in his faith. Friends and family would say that Dennis "ran the race of life" well - with faith and perseverance and his eyes fixed upon Jesus. He was a humble and generous man, with a servant's heart who had never hesitated to help those in need. He was a faithful friend beyond measure, and made every new stranger quickly feel as an old friend. Dennis was an active and faithful member of his church - House of Prayer in Houston for several decades, and was an active supporter of many charities, including Star of Hope, Family Promise and Meals on Wheels to name a few.

Dennis' race in life may have been founded in his passion and joy in running. He was an All-American Cross-Country runner who ran throughout his life, from the High School and Air Force Academy track teams and even most recently running in a 5k charity race in November, finishing 3rd for his age. Following one year at Michigan State University, Dennis was accepted into the Air Force Academy and served as a pilot in the Air Force for over 20 years flying F-4, Viper and F-16 jets. After his Air Force retirement, Dennis joined Southwest Airlines as pilot and flew for them until his retirement in 2014 as a Captain.

Dennis married his first love Alma in 1978. and they soon moved to Houston with their son Zach. Following Alma's death in 2016, he continued to focus on his family, while enjoying his retirement, including his love and passion of sports, and of course his favorite team the Houston Astros.

In 2021, Dennis found complete happiness with Kathleen Andrea Richardson, and they were married in May 2023. Dennis and Kathleen enjoyed their active and loving life together traveling and spending time with their family.

Dennis is survived by his wife Kathleen Sbach, his son Zachary Martin Sbach, his brother Elmer "Sonny" Sbach III and his wife Ann, and his sister Barbara Day and her husband Jeff.

Dennis will be greatly missed by family and friends. His funeral service will be held on Saturday, December 7 at 1:30 pm at House of Prayer Lutheran Church,14045 Space Center Blvd., Houston, TX 77062. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an organization of your choice.

An Interment service for his final resting place will be held at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado in 2025. The date of the service is to be determined.