Dennis Allen Von Forell

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dennis Allen Von Forell, age 71, of Green, Ohio, on April 4, 2025. Dennis passed away after a life filled with hard work, love, watching sports, and music. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Dennis was born on December 6, 1953, in Denver, Colorado, to Helen Anna Groves and Kenneth Gerald Von Forell. He was the proud husband of Janet Gardner, with whom he shared a life full of joy and music. Together, they raised a loving family.
Dennis was a father to Leslie (Brant) Zirker, Tina (Rulon) Chappell, Lindsay Von Forell, Greg (Stephanie) Von Forell, and Michael Von Forell. His legacy lives on in his grandchildren: Tyler Zirker, Jacelyn Chappell, Aimee Zirker, Whitney Chappell, Katie Zirker, Kemry Chappell, Kori Zirker, Addyson Chappell, Alyssa Zirker, Everett Von Forell, Wilson Von Forell, Lawrence Von Forell, Harrison Von Forell, Donovan Von Forell, and Anthony Von Forell.He is also survived by his siblings: Shirley Gylling, Barbara (Norm) Birmingham,and Kenneth (Margene) Von Forell. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Helen and Kenneth Von Forell.
Dennis was born in Denver, Colorado, on December 6, 1953. He lived there until he was 12 years old, when his family moved to Fort Collins. He graduated from Poudre High School in 1971. Dennis went on a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to California, where he developed fond memories of the people and places he visited.Dennis married his sweetheart, Janet Gardner, on October 6, 1976, in the Manti Temple. Not long after, their children began to join them, and they became a family of seven. Their lives were filled with music, performances, and long road trips. They loved to travel, experiencing different areas and cultures of the world.Dennis was a dedicated individual who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. He spent many years working with his father at Von Manufacturing, where he learned the value of hard work and craftsmanship. Additionally, Dennis took great pride in building a home for his family, as well as one for his parents, who lived just across the driveway.Dennis had an unshakeable work ethic and was proud to support his family throughout his life. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many capacities, but his favorite was in Primary, where he loved teaching the children.
Dennis's first passion was music, which he loved to share with his wife, children, and grandchildren. From an early age, he had a deep love for jazz and the trumpet. Dennis played trumpet in high school, where he also served as the drum major for the marching band and performed in musicals. Alongside Janet, who played the piano, Dennis also performed at weddings and other events.As a young family, they toured the region with a musical production of Open Any Door, and later in life, Dennis had the opportunity to play Pharaoh in a community production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. His musical talent, especially his heartfelt and soulful singing, remains one of his greatest legacies.
He had a deep love for sports! Whether it was watching multiple games at once, listening to one, or even yelling at the screen, he was always immersed. Sunday afternoons were reserved for watching the recorded Broncos game. He enjoyed Rockies games, whether at Coors Field, in the car, or at home on TV. The Avalanche and Nuggets were weekly highlights.Dennis was a talker who loved engaging with anyone around him. He had a gift for finding common ground with others, and he truly enjoyed the conversations he had.Last May, Dennis and Janet decided to move from Colorado, where they had lived their whole lives, to Ohio. They moved into their new home in October, and Dennis found joy in looking out his back window to admire the beautiful trees. They were excited to explore their new area together while watching the grandkids.His greatest joy was his family, and the memories and fun they shared together will be cherished forever.
Funeral Service Information:
Saturday May 3, 2025 10:00am
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
735 Easthill St. SE North Canton, OH 44720
Colorado Service
Saturday June 7, 2025 10:00 AM
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
3435 Brunner Blvd. Johnstown, CO 80534
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to:The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Humanitarian Services https://philanthropies.churchofjesuschrist.org/humanitarian-services/
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