Dennis Conner

1944 - 2024

Dennis Eugene Conner

July 17, 1944 - August 27, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that the loved ones of Dennis Conner announce his passing on the evening of August 27, 2024.

Dennis was born in Porterville, California to Otis and Hazel Conner. He was joined by his sister Beverly, seven years later. Denniss early years were filled with family activities and fun with five cousins of the same age.

Dennis always loved and excelled at school. He began his education at Bellview Elementary and then to the remodeled Roche Ave. for grades 1-6. Dennis gained lifetime freindships from these early years. Then on to Bartlett Jr. High and Porterville High class of 1962.

After graduation, Dennis attended Fresno State and demonstrated an ease in mastering foreign languages. He majored in Spanish and minored in French. Upon graduation he signed a contract to teach in paradise. He sold his car and off he flew to Kawaii only to discover that there was nowhere to live.

Back to California he came and was fortunate to find a postion at Woodlake High School teaching Spanish, French, and English as a second language.

Dennis loved teaching and was an innovative and popular teacher. He began a student Ballet Folkloric group, which became a huge success. Dennis was honored as teacher of the year in 1981. He continued his education and became a high school counselor. Along with co-counselor, Sally Pace, new and life enriching programs were begun, that are still used today. After 35 years of dedication to Woodlake High, he retired in 2004.

Although, illness prevented him from attending, a dinner and lifetime achievement award honoring his contributions was held this summer. Dennis was added to the Woodlake Hall of Fame.

After retiring, he enjoyed traveling, friends and family. He will always be remembered for being a good friend, great teacher, having a witty sense of humor and being a wonderful brother and son.

Dennis is survived by his sister, Beverly Suber (Mark), cousins Gary Roush (Mark); Barbi Fletcher; Betty Crawford (Jim); Joleen Jones (David); Rick Patterson; Roger Patterson and Orval Lee Johnson.

A memorial scholarship has been set up through Woodlake High School Endowmnet Program: www.WoodlakeFoundation.org or WHS Foundation, PO Box 475, Woodlake CA. 93286.

No service is being held at Denniss request.