Dennis Mervyn Bottcher

Dennis Mervyn Bottcher
July 17, 1942 - Feb. 11, 2025
Dennis was born to Ervin C. Bottcher and Hazel Mae Greenman Bottcher on July 17, 1942, in Lebanon, Oregon. He arrived during World War II while his father was injured in Germany and spent a year recovering in a military hospital in Washington State. Ervin didn't meet his son until Dennis was nine months old. After a long illness and an extended stay at a Salem nursing home, Dennis passed away at the age of 82.
Born and raised in Lebanon, Oregon, Dennis worked at Craig's Supermarket during high school and the first year of his marriage before being hired at U.S. Plywood. On July 7, 1963, he married Gale Sharon Lalley, and they began their married life in Lebanon. In 1964, they welcomed their first child, a son named Mark, followed by their daughter Leslie in 1966, completing their family of four.
Dennis had a passion for working on cars and motorcycles. In his 30s, from 1972 to 1976, he raced motorcycles at Portland International Raceway, where he excelled, winning many races. Near the end of his racing career, he was scouted to join the professional circuit but chose to pursue it as a hobby instead, unwilling to let it take him away from his family for extended periods.
He also enjoyed bow hunting with his son and friends and loved connecting with others on his ham radio (call sign N7TDI). An avid reader of the Bible, Dennis attended The Pentecostal Church of God and The First Assembly of God in Lebanon. He also spent considerable time studying supplements and nutrition.
Dennis worked over 40 years at U.S. Plywood, which later became Champion International and also at the Lebanon Hardboard Plant. He held various roles and worked in various departments, but concluded his career as a Sanders Grader. After the mill closed, he found work at Country Coach Motorhomes in Junction City, retiring in 2008.
In retirement, he cherished attending his grandson's basketball games and going out to dinner with his grandchildren.
Dennis is survived by his son Mark Bottcher of Lebanon; his daughter Leslie (Shawn) McDonald of Lebanon; his brother-in-law Steve (Marie) Lalley; his grandson Austin Bottcher of Lebanon; his great-granddaughters Peyton, Jordyn, and Jessie; his niece Shannon Bottcher Madrid; two great-nieces; one great-great-niece; and two great-great-nephews, all of Eugene.
He was preceded in death by his wife Gale (Dec. 2023), his brother Wes Bottcher, and his grandson Justin Bottcher (Dec. 2024).
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Huston-Jost Funeral Home, 86 West Grant Street, Lebanon. Burial will follow at Lebanon IOOF Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the GoFundMe account to help cover funeral and headstone costs.