Dennis E Whitfield

Dear Linda,

I was so sorry to hear of Dennis' sudden passing. I clearly understand what you will go through in the days, months and years ahead. You're in my thoughts.

Dennis was a great guy- I had pleasure of working for him at one point, he was funny, kind, a pleasure. He was a good kind southern man- all UGA all the time!! Dennis thought of u when u beat the pants off of us last weekend- you would have loved it!! Thanks for all your kindnesses- you will not be forgotten. MJ Pizzella

My name is Ken Gaudreault, and I had the pleasure of meeting Dennis through my association with Linda. Linda and I worked together in Fairfax County for several years. Dennis would accompany Linda at special events, and it gave me an opportunity to get to know him better. I always enjoyed our conversations sharing stories and hearing about his family. I remember when Dennis and Linda bought the land and cabin. They both enjoyed that place as their special get away. I know he will be greatly missed, and my condolences, sympathy and prayers go out to Linda and his family. Linda, I am so very sorry for your loss and my thoughts are with you.

Dennis meant so much to our family. My husband, Nick Putnam, spoke to Dennis almost every day. Nick has been going to Dennis´ property, "the cabin", for almost 2 decades. Dennis and the property he created is a core piece of our family routine and memories. Dennis spoke at our wedding and has been nothing but a positive light during big events in our life. He loved our kids, our nephews, brother, sister, parents and even our dog was always welcome. Nick looked up to Dennis as a mentor and a dear friend. While his accomplishments on paper are astounding, in our hearts we feel the exact same way to have been blessed by a kindness only few men truly possess. We hope to honor Dennis by providing comfort to his wife Linda and continuing to tend the land he cherished. We loved Dennis and will forever miss him terribly.
-Nick, Jessica, Mason, Emerson and all of the Putnam family

Our deepest sympathy to Linda and the family.

Linda, I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless!

Linda and family, my sympathy. Dennis taught our generation of political and policy practitioners SO much during his time at NFIB - just a tiny part of his legacy, but one that held huge sway to many of us in our 20s and 30s (way back when...). His invitations to your farm were coveted and I have great memories of visiting. I pray for his peaceful rest after a lifetime of accomplishment.

Linda, I am so very, very sorry for your loss!

Marc Nuttle
Dennis was just simply the most decent man I ever met in National politics. His competence, creativity, and tolerance made the tough business of national campaigns tolerable.

Dennis was nonjudgmental. He wanted the best for his friends. He treated everyone with respect and dignity. In other words he lived through his faith.

I am grateful to have known him.

My most sincere condolences and sympathies are offered to his family. May you know that by the way he lived his life he inspired so many of his friends.

Dennis was instrumental in bridging a gap between the traditional RNC team who were not supporters of Ronald Reagan, and the Reagan ream. His good humor and ability to bridge differing political views was immensely helpful to creating the Reagan victory in 1980. In addition, he was instrumental in bringing Bill Brock into the Reagan fold, resulting in Brock serving in two Cabinet positions.

My best personal memories of Dennis were sharing war stories with him over cigars at the REX cigar club bar in Alexandria. I will miss him.

Jim Hooley

Dennis also came to Mississippi in 1975 to help us with a field op for Carmichael for Gov. Dennis was a dynamo with that huge personality and that laugh. We came so close, thanks to his efforts. Yes, a great American and fellow Christian. Much love for the family. I pray Dennis´s faith gives you peace during this difficult period.