Dennis Grife

In Loving Memory of Dennis Grife

Dennis Grife, age 58, of Genoa, NE, passed away on August 31, 2025. Born on July 28, 1968, Dennis was a force to be reckoned with from the very beginning.

A proud, calloused-handed construction worker for over 35 years, he built more than ethanol plants - he built a life defined by grit, loyalty, and the kind of strength you don't find in manuals. If something needed fixing, he'd fix it. If something couldn't be fixed, well, he'd tell you exactly why - with a few colorful words and a raised eyebrow.

Known for being ornery, opinionated, and never one to sugarcoat the truth, he was also the guy who'd give you the shirt off his back - though he'd probably grumble about it first. Behind that tough exterior was a man who loved his family fiercely and worked tirelessly to give them a good life.

He leaves behind Melissa, his beloved wife of 35 years, who somehow managed to keep him in line (most of the time); his three children Nicole (Mike), Andrew (Elisa), and Austin (Amy), who inherited his stubborn streak and strong work ethic; his granddaughters Ronnie, Lakeleigh, and Vivian, two bonus granddaughters Mia and Charley, and a grandson on the way. He is also survived by his father John Grife; his brother Tim (Arlene); sister-in-law Mackenzie (Jody); and many nieces and nephews.

Dennis taught us how to work hard, speak our minds, and never back down when it mattered. He may not have been the softest man, but he was the realest - and the kind of man you were proud to call your own… until a restaurant put onions in his food. Then all bets were off.

A lover of golf, Dennis had a knack for hitting life straight down the fairway - with the occasional slice, a few well-placed expletives, and maybe a thrown club or two. But in the end, he always found his way to the green.

He'll be missed more than he'd ever admit - and we wouldn't have it any other way.

A celebration of Dennis's life will be held on September 20th at White Oak Antique Tractor Club from 11-2 in his hometown, Deer River, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, flip somebody the bird, give someone a wet willy, tell a story, and raise a glass in his honor - preferably while arguing about something completely unimportant.

Dennis is preceded in death by his mother Lynda, his father-in-law Ronnie, and his mother-in-law Laurie.