Obituary published on Legacy.com by Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory (26th St. Chapel) - Bradenton on Jan. 2, 2025.
Dennis Carl Colberg, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024, in
Bradenton, Florida, at the age of 72. Born on December 24, 1952, in the Bronx, New York, Dennis was the cherished son of the late Jack and Irene Colberg.
Dennis's life was defined by his deep love for family, dedication to his community, and countless passions that brought joy to those around him. He shared 48 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Karen (Stringham), whom he married on Great Island in Narragansett, Rhode Island, in 1976. Together, they built a life rooted in love, family, and meaningful traditions.
Dennis was a proud father to his children, Jessaca Clark, Charlie and his wife Michelle. He adored his granddaughters Catarina and Aislinn who brought immense light to his life. He treasured the foundation he created for generations to come and found great pride in the home he built at Echo Acre in Exeter, RI.
Dennis spent 39 years working at the Quonset Development Corporation Wastewater Facility in North Kingstown, RI. He was known for his expertise, commitment, and leadership and worked his way up to Superintendent before retiring in 2019. His contributions extended far beyond his professional life, as he actively served his community through roles on the QDC Board, as a member of the Rhode Island Wastewater Association, as a youth football and baseball coach, and as a volunteer firefighter.
Dennis was a deacon at the United Congregational Church in Middletown, RI, enjoying brunch and football afterwards with Grammy & Poppy Barrows. The rule was "no churchy, no brunchy!"
His friends meant the world to him. Dennis was known for hosting epic parties that were filled with good times, good laughs, and great music. He was a straight shooter and the guy you could call in a pinch.
Dennis' passions included music, golf, football, reading, and working with his hands. He enjoyed family trips, including camping in New England and vacationing in South Florida. He and Karen were able to continue their love of travel throughout the years.
After over 40 years in Rhode Island, Dennis and Karen relocated to
Bradenton, Florida, drawn by their shared love for Anna Maria Island and the warmth of the Gulf Coast. Dennis embraced this change. He found great friends in his new neighborhood enjoying many fun activities including "Toddy Time" and trivia. He also continued giving to his community by serving on the HOA board at Huntington Woods.
In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, Dennis is survived by his brothers Jack (Linda), Tim, and Gary (Kim); numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and countless friends who cherished his wisdom, kindness, and sense of humor.
Dennis's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He leaves behind a life well lived, a family well-loved, and a community deeply enriched by his presence.
There will be a gathering to celebrate Dennis' life on Friday, January 3rd at 4pm on the lawn in the southwest corner of Huntington Woods Condominiums,
Bradenton, FL. A celebration of his life will also be held in Rhode Island at a later date with details to follow.
In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to the
charity of your choice or sharing a good a joke with your friends in his honor.
"You gotta let your soul shine / shine till the break of day" ~ Allman Brothers
Rest in peace, Dennis. Your love, integrity, and humor will forever echo in the lives of those you touched.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 26th St Chapel, 5624 26th Street West,
Bradenton, FL 34207 is in charge of arrangements.