Denis D. Anderson

It is with great sorrow that the family of Denis David Anderson, 81, of Loves Park shares that he passed away at his home on Thursday, November 21, 2024, following a brief but valiant battle with cancer.

Denis was born May 13, 1943 in San Antonio, TX, the son of Walter C. and Alice Genniel (Carpenter) Anderson. Following his father’s stint in the Army Air Corps at Kelly Field, the young family returned home to Northern Illinois, eventually settling on the family farm just west of Oregon, IL. Denis grew up on the farm. He was a voracious reader, pushed himself in academics, and explored fine arts, culture, and classical music and jazz as opportunities presented themselves. He attended Oregon schools, graduated as Salutatorian of Oregon Community High School Class of 1961. He then went on to the University of Illinois for both undergraduate and graduate work, attaining his degree as Doctor of Dental Surgery.

Denis’s lifetime of service began soon after. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Lieutenant, and also held the rank of Sergeant when assigned to Marine battalions. He was stationed at Coronado Naval Base; San Diego, CA; Camp Hanson, Kin, Okinawa; and a remote Marine Camp in Japan during the Vietnam conflict serving as a dentist. He continued to serve in the Reserves for several years thereafter. 

 After his time in the Navy, Denis returned to Northern Illinois to join Dr. Wilson at his dental practice in Rochelle, IL before opening his own dental practice. During the years he practiced dentistry, he forged a dedicated and talented team of hygienists, dental assistants, and office staff who became a close “work family” with Denis serving patients in Rochelle and the surrounding region over the decades. The team began with Jill Shaneberg, who came aboard just weeks after the “young new dentist” arrived in town, and Jill continued as a valued leader on the office team for decades. Dr. Anderson and his staff were held in high regard for their care and professionalism. Denis continued to study to increase his understanding of best practice and excellence in the art of dentistry, attending continuing education at The Pankey Institute for the duration of his career. He also was a member and former president of the Winnebago County Dental Society. He retired after serving his patients and community after 45 years. 

His two sons, Stephen Andrew Anderson and Nicholas David Anderson, were born during the first few years after Denis moved to Rochelle. Denis exhibited a great deal of courage and fortitude, leaning on his faith, when he experienced the great tragedy of the death of his younger son, Nicholas, who succumbed to cystic fibrosis at the age of 15 months in July, 1978. 

Denis found great joy and a lifetime of happiness when he met and married his true love, Barbara Hurtte LaFayette. They wed on August 5, 1994, and enjoyed a wonderful life, blending their families together. They celebrated their 30th anniversary in August of 2024.

He was a long time active member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Rockford, serving on many committees, including the Vestry, and a long time member of the church choir. He was a Rotarian and participated with many civic groups and charitable organizations. 

 Denis lived a life of service dedicated to his country, his community, and his family. He was loved by many — known for his generosity, kindness, and good nature, and also known as “Smiley” in high school and for his unassuming humility. He was grateful to his last day. 

 Denis is survived by: beloved wife, Barbara; son, Stephen (Taryn) Anderson of Oak Lawn, IL; Stepdaughters: Amy (Thomas) MacAdam of Colorado Springs, CO; Adriana (Michael) Plocinski of Batavia, IL; Stepson: Garett (Amber) LaFayette of Cottage Grove, WI. Sisters: Eve (James) Leather of Stillman Valley, IL; and Beth Anderson-Hall of Oregon, IL. Grandchildren: Nicholas Hays. Step Grandchildren: Quinn MacAdam; Jake (Megan) MacAdam; Charlie (Annie) MacAdam; Marina MacAdam; Elena MacAdam; Adele LaFayette; Aurelie LaFayette; Tyler Plocinski; Lucas Plocinski; Colton Plocinski. Step Great Grandchildren: Brecken MacAdam; Shiloh MacAdam. Niece: Andee Leather. Nephews: Mark Leather; Zach Hall. Denis became a surrogate father and beloved mentor to Zach during his formative years. Predeceased by his parents; son: Nicholas D. Anderson; niece: Kristine Leather Paris; and mother of Stephen and Nicholas: Patricia Whitby Anderson. 

A Funeral Service will be on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 412 North Church Street, Rockford, IL 61103. A visitation will be prior to the service starting at 10:00 a.m. Private family burial will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Brides Episcopal Church, Oregon, IL or Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Rockord, IL.