Dennis Darrell Bonny ended his 6-year battle with Alzheimer's disease when he passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones on Wednesday, August 2nd.
Denny was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on November 5, 1940. He was the second of three children to J. Darrell Bonny and Darlene Frances Smith.
From an early age Denny took an interest in sports. He was in the first graduating class from Highland High School, where he lettered in three sports: Football, basketball and baseball. His lean and athletic physique earned him the nick-name "Bones".
It was at the University of Utah that Denny met his bride, Marilee Richards. The two were married in the Salt Lake Temple on March 17, 1966. Marilee would later say that it was Denny's genuine kindness that won her heart.
After graduating, Denny began working with the Union Oil Company of California. He held various positions there and received advanced training to become a lubrication engineer. He thrived in this career and enjoyed it immensely until his retirement after 39 years of service.
Denny has always loved the outdoors. From pheasant hunting as a young man to camping, boating, fishing and golfing, many of which became family-favorite activities. He has a soft-spot in his heart for all animals. The Bonny backyard at one time consisted of pheasants, doves, quail and ducks ‚ not to mention Miles Standish, our pet turkey. There was always a dog in the house. He once said that the only times that that he could remember shedding a tear or two was each time that he had to "put down" the family dog (3).
Denny has always been an example of kindness to everyone and his family was founded on principles of love at home and happy times together. He was a truly amazing father and grandfather and always remained a source of patience and love to his family. His smile was contagious and his laugh was infectious.
Denny was predeceased in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Marilee; his four children James (Jeni), Jeffrey (Penny), Michael, and Jennifer; his six grandchildren Sierra (Aaron), Weston, Kate, Noah, Luke and Eli; his two sisters Patricia Bonny and Daralyn (John) Bonny Gilder; and his beloved dog Ellie.
A public viewing will be held at the Larkin Mortuary (260 East South Temple) on Monday, August 14th from 11 AM ‚ 1 PM. A graveside service will follow at the Salt Lake City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Memory Matters (https://www.memorymattersutah.org/) in memory of Denny.
