Dennis "Bear" Calhoun

Dennis "Bear" Calhoun
Died: September 6, 2025 in Woodstock, IL
Dennis "Bear" Calhoun at the age of 75, passed away on September 6th, 2025 at his home in Woodstock. He passed peacefully in his sleep after a graceful struggle with his health issues. Dennis will be remembered for his warm welcoming smile filled with kindness and humor. His artistic eye was evident in his hobby of editing digital photography. Dennis grew up in Ingleside, IL, in a home built with love, by his parents, Joe and Bev Calhoun. After graduating from Grant High School, he spent one year at NE Missouri State College. He then enlisted in the Army during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Greece and Vicenza Italy. Thanks to a blind date arranged by his sister Suzie, he met Diane. The two married shortly after and along with their two sons, they built their life together in Johnsburg. Dennis graduated from the American Academy of Art in Chicago. He began his career at Impact Advertising Agency, where he earned his nickname of Bear and made many lifelong friends. He worked on promotions in his role as Creative Director for Miller Beer, Taco Bell and Cummmin's Engines to name a few. If you were to ask him what his greatest lifetime achievement was, he would say it is his family. Nothing brought more joy than being with his sons, their families and above all holding his two great-grandsons, Crew and Cooper. Dennis is survived by his wife of 50 years, Diane. His sons Ken (Missy) and Shawn (Julie) Calhoun. Grandsons: Joe, Daniel (Kelsey) Calhoun, Andrew (Avery), Mathew (Megan) and Jacob Calhoun. Great Grandsons: Crew and Cooper Calhoun. Siblings, Debbie (Tim) Sipolt, Suzie (deceased) and Steve Calhoun. Many cousins, nieces and nephews. A Memorial Visitation will be Thursday, September 11, 2025 at Colonial Funeral Home from 4:00pm-8:00pm. Memorial Service will be at 7:30pm. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The Honor Flight Network https://www.honorflight.org/donate/ or Honor Flight Box L-4016 Columbus, OH 43260-4016. For more information please contact Colonial Funeral Home, 815-385-0063.