Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Dennis Donfris Obituary
Born: May 10, 1967
Died: September 12, 2024
Dennis J. Donfris, age 57, passed away on September 12, 2024 surrounded by his family.
Denny, as he is lovingly known by many, is survived by his wife of 26 years, Amy (Taylor) Donfris, son Tim (Maria) Donfris, and daughters Ayden and Addisyn Donfris. He will be remembered by his many friends and family members. In eternal life, Dennis joins his mother Karen Laine. Dennis attended Jacobs High School and went on to earn a degree in business from Northern Illinois University. His love for people and cooking led him to become a successful restaurateur. Denny got his start in the hospitality industry early, working at the Sizzler in high school and the Crystal Pistol while attending NIU. After college, he honed his skills at Taylor Street Pizza in Schaumburg and soon opened Taylor Street Pizza/Old Town Pizza in Naperville. In 2005, he was part of a group that opened the Randall Roadhouse in Carpentersville. To know Dennis was to know a true friend and a larger than life character. His charisma and one of a kind personality will not be forgotten. Beyond spending time with his family and friends, Dennis loved the Chicago Bears, fishing, a good steak and Bob Seger. Family and friends fondly recount his many sayings, his impeccable fashion sense of year round shorts, novelty tees, Hawaiian prints and denim. Above all else, Dennis will be remembered for his generosity-- from cooking elaborate meals for all those around him to never turning away an employee, family member, or friend who needed a break.
Dennis's kind heart will be deeply missed.
Celebration of Life Open House will
be held on October 12, 2024, from
2-5 pm at Galati's Hideaway
in Cary, IL.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Dennis Donfris
6 Entries
Michael Beckman Kurse
October 22, 2024
Den is one of the greatest people I know.He could make anyone feel at ease.I've know him since The Sizzler days, and hired him at The Crystal Pistol knowing that he would take over.He had the drive and the skills to succeed in the restaurant business.It was there that he met, Amy.I was proud to attend both of his wedding receptions because they had that many friends.My prayers go out to Amy, Aiden, Addysen,Tim, Diane,Don,Chip,and Jean.
Sue Furtak and family
October 11, 2024
I´m so sorry to hear about the passing of Dennis. He was a wonderful man. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May he rest in peace
The Nielsen´s
October 9, 2024
Amy and family, we are all
So saddened to hear about the great loss of Dennis. Avery is sending prayers to her friend Addisyn. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you navigate this difficult time.
The Lechs
October 8, 2024
Dennis was one of kind! A great supporter of the Carillon Community and the Carillon Car Club. Randall Roadhouse touched many people as did Dennis.
Our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Dennis.
Jeanie and Rob Cowan
September 29, 2024
Amy...we are thinking of you and your family. We are so sad about the loss of Dennis. We loved our cousin. He will be missed by many. He was so generous and sweet. Gone too soon!! xoxo
Don and Traci Wright
September 29, 2024
Sending love and prayers to Amy and the kids. Dennis was always so kind and generous to our family. Donnie and Traci Wright.
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in Dennis Donfris's name
Memorial Events
for Dennis Donfris
How to support Dennis's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Dennis Donfris's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
