Dennis Otto Monson

Dennis Otto Monson passed away on January 17, 2009 at his home of natural causes.  

Dennis was born May 8, 1934 to Otto Alvero Monson and Ethel Catherine Dye.  He attended school in Firth, Idaho.   

Dennis joined the Navy in 1951 and retired 20 years later in 1971.  He participated as a member of the Fleet Reserve, VFW, American Legion, and attended reunions associate with these organizations. Dennis also served with the American Legion volunteering on the War Bonnet Rodeo committee supervising the Mutton Busting events for many years.  Twenty-nine of his years were devoted to the Disabled American Veterans.  He was a chapter and state commander of the organization. Dennis drove the DAV van transporting veterans from Eastern Idaho to the Veteran’s hospital in SLC.   

Dennis graduated from CSI with a bachelor’s degree in Motel Hotel Management.  He also received a Certificate of Applied Science in heating and air conditioning repair and service.

His hobbies included hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and attending public auctions.   

Dennis married Florence E. McKinnon on January 21, 1956 in Maldon, Massachusetts at the First Baptist Church.  They have been married for 53 years.  During his Naval Service he traveled the world and later with Florence they traveled the US extensively.  The couple have five children; all born in different states.  The family returned to Idaho and lived in Shelley, Spencer, and Firth.     

Dennis is survived by his wife, Florence, and five children:  Sharen L. Lyon (Steve) of Firth, John A. Monson (Cherisse) of Firth, Willard M. Monson of Pocatello, Richard D. Monson (Cindy) of Iona, and Denise C. Burgoyne (Gene) of Firth; twelve grandchildren and six great grandchildren with three due this summer.  

Funeral services will be held 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at Nalder Funeral Home (110 West Oak) in Shelley with John Monson conducting.  The family will receive friends Monday evening 7:00 till 8:30 P.M. and Tuesday morning 9:30 till 10:40 also at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Goshen Cemetery. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.nalderfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the Shelley Senior Center, 193 West Pine Street, Shelley, Idaho, 83274 or the Disabled American Veterans Memorial Foundation, 6290 Linton Blvd., Suite 104, Delray Beach, FL 33484.