While Dennis Hayden Justice worked many jobs over the years that he was very passionate about, who he was as a person is best described here through words of his dear friend Arik Estus:
"Dennis left this earthly plane surrounded by friends and family. While here, he was sometimes too trusting. People who claimed to be friends stole from him and lied about him for their own gain. And would lie to him to throw the scent on another. Yet, he would befriend anyone who spoke courteously and was friendly. He was a friend and mentor to a number of young men who are as patriotic Americans as Dennis was. He was one to ask telling questions of those in power and expect them to answer truthfully. Dennis would help a stranger as well as a friend. And he loved dogs. Dennis loved to tell stories of the people and events in his life. Not to preach or teach so much as to enliven the world with a bit of humor. He loved to have people visit and just pass the time of day discussing the events of the world and sometimes arguing a point of law or history. When presented with a conundrum he would respond with ‘Piffle.’ Did I mention that he loved dogs?"
Dennis passed peacefully surrounded by friends and family who loved him very much. He is survived by his daughters Sandee Payne and Jennifer Justice; his grandchildren Sara, Rachel, Rowdy, Jack and Nico; and his great-grandchildren, Tyson, Colt and Max. He is also survived by friends who became his family. They include the Estuses, Arik and Joyce, Mike and Kat and their children, Arik Jr., Joe and Emily; Aaron and Sarah; as well as Rob Henson and family, among many others.
A celebration of Dennis' life and a potluck will take place at 1 p.m. on Feb. 25, 2023, at the Onalaska Community Youth Center, 233 Central Ave., Onalaska, Washington. Please feel free to bring memories, stories and photos.
