Dennis J Colleran

Dennis J. Colleran -- Devoted Family Man, Business Leader, and Faithful Community Servant, Dies
Dennis J. Colleran, 88, passed away on June 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A man defined by loyalty, passion, humility, and grace, Denny leaves behind a legacy of service to his family, his faith, his community, and his profession.
Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in 1936, Denny moved with his family to Washington State in 1946. It was in Prosser where he and his four brothers built a close-knit community, and Denny's values took hold. At the center of their early years was his mother's restaurant, Julie's Café-a true local institution and source of pride. There, Denny learned firsthand the importance of hard work, comfort food, and showing up for his neighbors. That sense of community support stayed with Denny throughout his life.
After graduating from Prosser High School, where he was ASB president and captain of the basketball and football teams, Denny attended Humboldt State University. He then served two years in the Army, during which he traveled across Europe and collected many cherished stories that stayed with him throughout his life. Upon returning to the U.S., Denny studied at Seattle University, where he formed lifelong friendships, earned his degree, and became a CPA. He settled in Seattle, where he met his future wife, Nancy. They married in 1967 and spent five joyful years living in Seattle's Capitol Hill neighborhood. In 1971, Denny and Nancy moved their young family to Yakima, where he joined Tree Top as Controller. Through dedication, strategic insight, and trusted leadership, he rose to become President and Chief Executive Officer in 1982. Under his leadership, Tree Top transformed from a regional apple juice producer into a globally recognized brand, expanding into international markets. Then-Governor Booth Gardner appointed Denny to serve on the Western Governors' International Competitive Task Force, an honor that allowed him to promote and expand Washington State's trade opportunities. In 1989, Denny's outspoken criticism of using Alar on apple trees led to his resignation-a pivotal moment in his life where he faced a choice between his values and business pressures. He ultimately chose his values, which meant leaving behind a company, community, and friends who had shaped his identity at that time. Denny and Nancy then moved to Salem, Oregon, where he served as Chief Financial Officer of Agripac, Inc. Following this, his long-time friendship and mutual respect with Dennis Richardson led to his appointment as general manager of Cascade Express Transportation, a role he relished and held until retirement. Denny and Nancy returned to their home and friends in Yakima in 2007.
Denny's true vocation was leadership grounded in integrity and care. He was deeply proud of his roots and gave back generously through community involvement. He served on numerous boards, including as president of the Processed Apples Institute, the National Food Processing Association, the Seattle University Board of Regents, and La Salle High School's board, among others that reflected his commitment to education, faith, and mentorship.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Denny showed his love through actions-he was passionately opinionated, sometimes loudly, but always with heartfelt conviction. Skiing and golf weren't just hobbies; they were obsessions. Annual ski trips with dear friends rank among his most treasured memories. He was also a dedicated Gonzaga basketball fan. He took pride in having two daughters who are Zag alums and was especially thrilled that one of his grandsons is currently attending Gonzaga. Denny loved a great song, and his moves on the dance floor were legendary. For his family, any Neil Diamond song instantly brings him to mind.
Denny and Nancy shared nearly 58 years of marriage-a partnership grounded in love and commitment to family. Together, they created a life full of tradition, faith, and happiness. Denny would tell anyone that his greatest achievements were his three daughters.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy Ballard Colleran; his daughters, Kathleen Colleran Graham, Bridget Russel (Sean), and Meghan Colleran; and his beloved grandchildren, Robbie Graham, Audrey Graham, Coleman Russel, and Sophia Russel-each of whom carries forward his values and his deep love for family. Denny and his brothers Don, Dick, Bob and Ed, and his cousin Tom, made family such a centerpiece of their lives that his extended family-including his sisters-in-law Jan, Carol, Donna, Karen, and Mirielle, and all their children-shared countless holidays and memories. That closeness was never taken for granted; it was one of the great joys of his life.
The entire family wishes to thank the loving care from his doctors, nurses, and caregivers that made sure his last days were as comfortable as possible. You will all be remembered by us warmly.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Paul's Cathedral in Yakima at 12:00 noon on July 19, 2025. A celebration of Denny's life will follow at the Yakima Country Club. His family invites donations to Catholic Charities of Yakima and the Sister Rebecca Berghoff Foundation, in honor of a man who lived generously, led faithfully, and loved without measure.
Brookside Funeral Home is caring for the family. Please visit www.brooksidefuneral.com to share a memory or condolence with the family.