On Wednesday, September 20, 2023, Dennis M. McKone (Denny), loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away at the age 78.
Denny was born on September 24, 1944, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Martin H. McKone and Janet Nelson McKone. His Father passed away 24 days after his birth. He was then raised by his Mother and Stepfather, James B. McLelland. He grew up on the westside and graduated from West High School in 1963. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served a tour of duty on the U.S.S. Lexington, stationed in Pensacola, Florida. After returning home, he met the love of his life Linda Ann Wegner and they were married on August 1, 1968. They raised two daughters, Tracy Lynn and Cindy Marie. They called Rose Park their home for over 50 years and enjoyed their time there with many great friends and neighbors. Denny proudly served the citizens of Salt Lake City as a member of the Salt Lake City Fire Department as a Firefighter, Battalion Assistant, Public Information Officer and as Fire Chief before retiring after 40 years of service. He enjoyed a life-long and fulfilling career with the SLCFD and lovingly referred to his firefighters as “His Boys.” He will forever be known as Chief in the lives of many.
Denny was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and his greatest joy in life was spending time with his family and visiting with members of his SLCFD family. He was an avid football fan, cheering on the Fighting Irish, Runnin’ UTES, and the 49ers. He very much enjoyed playing golf as often as he could and working in his yard.
He is survived by his wife, Linda, his two daughters, Tracy Ahlstrom, Cindy (Matt) Beynon, and his four grandchildren, Danilynn (Curtis), Aubrey, Jakob and Justin, as well as many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his Father, his Mother and Stepfather, his brothers, Richard Spence McKone and Martin Patrick McKone, and his twin-sister, Sherry Ann Williams.
Funeral Services will be held at 12 noon on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at Larkin Mortuary, 260 E. South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah. A viewing will be held the evening of Wednesday, September 27, 2023, from 6-8 PM, and from 10:30-11:30 AM prior to the funeral services. You may also watch the service online through Zoom using the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86514370458
“Though you may be gone, your legacy lives on in the lives you touched.
Linda and family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Denny. I considered him to be a brother and I feel a great loss. My thoughts, prayers and heart are with you all at this difficult time.
D
We are saddened to know of Denny’s passing. He always was nice to my family and me throughout my career. Our prayers are with you and with all who knew him from his days with the SLCFD.
I had the privilege to work with Dennis for many years. He was always a great inspiration to me. His energy and passion for the fire service was remarkable. You could always tell that the Battalions Chiefs he worked for looked up to him and trusted his instincts and confidence. He will be missed.
Linda and Cindy,
My deepest condolences on hearing to you and your family. Denny served our country and city with honor and dignity. How proud you must be to have him leave quite a legacy. May you find comfort in each other's strength during this difficult time.
I heard of Denny's passing from Dan Andrus. As a member of the SLCFD dispatch office, I had the pleasure of working with Denny for my entire career. I'm preaching to the choir when I tell you he was a good man and Great Firefighter, Dog Robber and Chief. I have fond memories of him. I hope that time eases the pain of your loss, and that you can smile again when remembering him.
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Denny. It was always a pleasure to come mow the grass and visit, if only for a few minutes.
May the God of your understanding comfort you at this difficult time.
Linda Tracy & Cindy, so sorry for the loss of your father. He was a wonderful friend to my family he will be missed greatly
