Dennis Ray Gilhousen

Dennis Ray Gilhousen, 82, of Norton, KS passed away March 13, 2025 at his home in Norton. He was born July 18, 1942 in Norton, KS to Fred L. and Barbara J. (Marshall) Gilhousen.
Dennis grew up in Norton and was a1960 graduate of Norton Community High School. He went on to attend Kansas Wesleyan and graduated in 1965. He then began working on his Masters in Hospital Administration and finished at the University of Pittsburg. Dennis began working as the Assistant Director at Cincinnati General Hospital. In 1971, he came back to Norton and began his journey with Valley Hope Association. Dennis proudly served this organization until his retirement in 2005. In true Dennis style, he filled his "retirement" with a lot of travel while working as CEO of NAATP, Vicar of St. Michael's in Mission, KS, was an active Eagles member, and #1 fan of Tri-City Storm.
Dennis was dedicated to his community and enjoyed serving in many ways. He was a member of the USD 211 School Board, Norton City Council, NAATP, First Security Bank Board, this list is endless. He spent many years of service in the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Dennis also served as the Priest for Trinity Episcopal Church in Norton.
He had a very deep passion for seeing and experiencing the world. He and his brother, Fred, went on many adventures and his family spent a lot of hours watching those slideshows. When not traveling to China, India, and Israel, he would spend hours packing up the station wagon for a family road trip. The family knew when he would say, "Let's Go, Griswalds!", they were in for a fun trip, as long as he didn't have to use the Snap of Power! Above all, Dennis truly loved serving everyone he met, whether it was his family, his church, or his community. His heart has traveled to all four corners of this earth.
Dennis is survived by his children: Benjamin (Vicki Paddock) Gilhousen of Loveland, CO, Carrie (Rob) Stewart of Paola, KS, Sarah (Brian) Johnson of Lenexa, KS, and Cassie Gilhousen of Norton, KS; brothers, Frederic (Carolyn) Gilhousen of Prairie Village, KS and Jim Gilhousen of Wichita, KS; 11 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren, and a multitude of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.
There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Trinity Episcopal Church, Norton and sent in care of Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home, 215 W. Main St., Norton, KS. Condolences may be left at www.plumergobber.com
The family has so much gratitude for all the love and support we are receiving during this difficult time. He had quite the village! All that we are asking for at this time is that you all continue on your daily journey and remember a few tips he always shared with us: seek out adventures on a regular basis, love unconditionally and always have cash in your wallet to keep the tank full!