Dennis Lee Breitenstein

Dennis Lee (Larson) Breitenstein, 79 of Wausau, died at Aspirus Wausau Hospital on Thursday, October 2, 2025, after a brief illness.
Dennis was born on November 25, 1945, in Knowlton, the son of Marion Larson.
On June 28, 1998, Dennis was united in marriage to Danette Dixon in Florence, AL.
Dennis was born and raised in the Knowlton area. He had many adventures in life that took him to all corners of the US. Dennis was larger than life. One of his favorite movie quotes was 'Get busy livin' or get busy dyin' and he took this to heart in all things. He enjoyed living life on the edge and loved anything with wheels. His favorite pastime was seeing how fast he could get his vehicles to go. He also collected and sold more vehicles than can be counted in his lifetime. Dennis loved animals and had several heart dogs in his life at one time or another. He was also an incredible gardener who could bring anything to life. His green thumb was unmatched.
To know Dennis was to love him or to hate him. There was rarely middle ground in his relationships. He loved fiercely, fought tirelessly and was always right. At least, that's what he would have said.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Danette; daughters, Peggy (Todd) Wold, Kelly (Mike) Rector and Shannon (Ken) Staskiewicz; son, Charles (Rachel) Wilson; seven grandchildren, Brooke, Dustin, Kristin, Cassidy, Cade, Alexa and Hunter, as well as six great grandchildren. He will be missed by his best furry pal, Micah.
Dennis was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Clarence and Rosabelle Breitenstein; mother, Marion Larson; ex-wife and good friend, Betty Kislow, and two of his favorite pooches, Tanner and Jack.
Per Dennis' wishes, no service will be held.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations of cash or supplies be made to the Clark County Humane Society in Dennis' name.
Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at schmidtschulta.com.