Tammy L Arndt Carthage, TN – Posted On: February 6, 2023

This saddens me. Dennis was one of the nicest man. I went to school with him and I don't recall ever hearing him say or do anything negative to anyone. Rest in peace. Prayers for the family.

stephen japuntich Phillips, Wisconsin – Posted On: February 4, 2023

Dennis was a player on my first coaching job in Winter in 1980 for basketball. A hard worker, so coachable and his family was so supportive of the program. I am sure he will be missed by all who were touched by his work ethic and friendship.

Jessica Riekenberg Den Hoorn, Netherlands – Posted On: January 28, 2023

I’m so sorry to hear of Dennis’ passing. He was such a great man and helped so many, including me. Jeriame is my brother and he always only had such wonderful things to say about Dennis. I know he will be sorely missed. I’m sending heartfelt prayers of comfort and peace to you, Judy, and extended to Dennis’s whole family.

Nancy & Tom Bogumill Weston, Wi – Posted On: January 25, 2023

Our hearts hurt for you, but you have many great memories to hold in Your hearts 💕 🙏🏼 Cherish them. Dennis is looking out for you from above.

Steve Tannler Chippewa Falls, WI – Posted On: January 24, 2023

My sincere sympathy to all of the Aken family. God bless you during this time.

Randy McKibben Sarona, WI – Posted On: January 24, 2023

So sorry to hear of your loss. I was just beginning to get to know Coach Aken. I could tell he cared for his players. I know it will be difficult to continue to play without him.
My condolences to his family, his players, and the Thorp community.
Randy McKibben
Sarona

Bill Bergquist Prior Lake, MN – Posted On: January 23, 2023

Judy, Nikki, Jason, Rocky and Vicki
So very sorry that you lost your husband, father and sibling at such a young age. I guess we never know what life holds in store for us. I was thinking back on our childhoods and the time we spent together at Grandpa Baugh’s cabin and Aken’s resort on Round Lake. Lots of fond memories and several cases of Dennis being somewhat accident prone. Dennis was about 5 and we had all wandered out on the dock, Rocky, Judy, me, a few others and Dennis who was wearing a ball cap. Somehow Dennis managed to fall in and went completely under with only his cap floating above him. We all stood there waiting for him to pop up which he didn’t. Before we could react, Aunt Joanne came running and jumped in and reached down and grabbed him. We all got a little scolding for not doing the same but in our defense none of us knew he couldn’t swim. Oops.
Another time Dennis was getting into the boat, slipped on something and broke his fall with his knee on the gas tank handle leaving the tank a little redder and requiring some medical attention. A similar incident requiring medical intervention occurred, involving our dog, a rather large German Shepherd. What little boy doesn’t like playing with a dog? Dennis came up behind him and grabbed him just ahead of his back legs startling the dog who immediately spun around biting him on the face. I don’t recall all the details but I think there was a trip to the ER.
During one wintertime gathering Dennis, Cousin Michelle, me and my brother Mike decided it would be fun to climb up some small trees until they bent over letting us down slowly into the snow. For the younger crowd that’s the kind of stuff we did before cell phones and video games. We affectionately called it “Tree Bending”. Dennis and Mike decided to climb a little larger tree together which seemed like a fun variation. They were both up the tree at least 15 feet before it started to bend over but it stopped 8 feet short of the ground. So a decision was quickly made to both let go on a three count and drop the rest of the way. Another good plan or so it seemed until Dennis didn’t let go on three and was immediately launched putting most catapults to shame. Fortunately he missed other trees and the snow cushioned his impromptu dismount. No damage this time. It was an epic event and gets mentioned at every gathering.
Seems as though Dennis mostly grew out of his accident prone status and became a wonderful husband and father. It’s easy to tell when you see how well his children are doing. He must have been so very proud of you both. Yes, we’ll all miss his big smile, bright eyes and happy attitude. In this thing we call life, he did it right.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Bill Bergquist

Joe Burns Amherst, Ohio – Posted On: January 22, 2023

A great guy since I first met him. Always had great conversation with him. I'm very sad to hear of his passing. My thoughts and prayers go for him and his family.

Brianne (Treffert) O'Brien Eau Claire, WI – Posted On: January 21, 2023

Sending my deepest condolences to the Aken and McIntire families. Dennis was a kind and thoughtful man. He was always smiling. Thinking of his family with a very heavy heart.

Mary and Mark Meyer Owen, WI – Posted On: January 21, 2023

We are so sorry to hear of Dennis' passing. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Sincerely, Mary and Mark.

Sally Seaman Thorp wi – Posted On: January 21, 2023

My condolences to Judy and her family , May you find peace in knowing Dennis is in Heaven watching over you all . Hold tight to all the Memories you have and lean on family and friends to help you threw this difficult time .

Alzada Nelson Cadott – Posted On: January 21, 2023

Judy and family

Sending my deepest sympathy to you and your family I did not know your husband but just knowing you he had to be a wonderful man. My prayers go out to you. Ulkfd

Rose Kilmer Thorp wi – Posted On: January 21, 2023

You are the best coach because you helped us learn how to play and you showed me how to play right even though this was our first year together as a coach you will be miss by our hole team rest in peace man we already miss you a lot

Bobbie Neisius & Family Thorp WI – Posted On: January 20, 2023

So sorry for the loss of Dennis, thoughts and prayers for Judy and family 🙏

Yolanda Davison Stanley Wisconsin – Posted On: January 20, 2023

Judy...Keeping you and your family in prayer. May Our LORD JESUS hold you close during this time and give you much comfort. Your Dennis was such a nice man to know. You two have a great love story that will continue to go on in your heart. Big hugs buddy.

Diane Friel Huron, OH – Posted On: January 20, 2023

I will treasure all of Our time together & every giggle U'd have ready for Me ~ U are truly "My Best Fishing Partner"...now that Ur up in Heaven with the rest of Our Amazing Family that are probably still doing The Jig in Ur honor...bring Me many, many fish 💗💗

Cathie McPhie Lorain Ohio – Posted On: January 20, 2023

My heart is broken. He was such a wonderful man. Heartfelt prayers, love and peace to you all. I love you!!

Theresa Mertens Eau Claire, wi – Posted On: January 19, 2023

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. You are all in our prayers. He always had that smile. God be with you guys

Jerry & Lori Czubakowski Stanley WI – Posted On: January 19, 2023

We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers go out to your whole family. Dennis will by missed and his memory will forever be in our hearts.