Dennis Clair "Denny" Devick

Dennis Clair Devick passed away late on January 31, 2026, at Westhaven Communities Care Center in Boone, Iowa. Dennis was under Hospice care suffering from multiple health conditions including congestive heart failure. He embraced his conditions boldly, knowing that he would be reunited in Heaven with loved ones soon.

Dennis was born in Marshalltown, Iowa on February 20, 1944, to Clair Wayne and Iris Ione (Tarrence) Devick. As a child, he was a dedicated Boy Scout and had a large paper route. As a teenager, he was a swimming teacher and was a missionary ambassador to Jamaica. He attended school in Marshalltown and graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1962. After high school, he attended William Penn College in Oskaloosa, Iowa, receiving his bachelor's in education.

While in college he met Betty Sue Whitsel. The two were involved in church activities and the salvation army. They both loved music, would sing for others, and loved to dance. They were wed on September 3, 1965 and had two children, Brian Clay born February 1, 1967 and Denise Renee born September 21, 1969.

Dennis became a math teacher after college and taught at a couple smaller districts in central Iowa before moving to Des Moines in 1972 where he worked for many years at Des Moines Public Schools. He was also a Boy Scout leader for several years. In the early 80's, he was selected as one of only two teachers in Iowa to be trained by IBM for a new computer for home use - The PC Junior. He became one of the first educators teaching people to use computers when they were a new thing.

Dennis suffered total renal failure around 1990. He became disabled when he could no longer keep working due to dialysis. He became a two-time kidney transplant patient. His love for education continued as he donated time as a director for Shalom Bible College and Seminary in West Des Moines, Iowa. He also supported his wife in her many missionary trips. He continued his own education receiving several degrees including a master's in education and a doctorate in Christian ministry.

Dennis suffered from many medical conditions and health problems, but he never lost his love of education and learning, his love of his family, and his love of God. He was always happy to help others and teach where he could. He also continued his love of music, especially loving the Gaither Vocal Band and southern gospel music.

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents Clair Wayne Devick and Iris Ione Tarrence Devick, his stepmother Lucille May Sturtz Rasmussen Devick, his grandparents Ray and Elzada Tarrence and Albert and Othelia Devick, his brother Bruce Devick, and his brother Toby Devick.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 60 years Betty Sue Whitsel Devick, his children Brian (Christi) Devick and Denise (Nick) Runza, sister Diane Devick, sister Nadine (Clelland) Looney, brother Tedd (Marilyn) Devick. Grandchildren Anthony (Rachel) Devick, Nicholle Carlson (Shane Laird), Natthanial Devick (Zoe Dupey), Grace Runza, and Gabe Runza. Five great grandchildren, Lauren Devick, Cassie Devick, Greysen Laird, Jordan Devick, and Whitney Devick.

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