Marianne Christine Dennis was born, August 17, 1956, in Zurich Switzerland.  In early December of 1958, she and her younger brother Robert, were flown to the US to join their older brother, Van, where they were welcomed by their adopted parents, Roy and Dorothy Dennis of Red Owl, SD.

Mari attended rural schools for the first eight grades and then attended Brown High school, in Sturgis, where she met new friends and went on many adventures. She graduated in May of 1974 and the world was her oyster.

She traveled and lived around the area, bouncing from one adventure to another. She had a Fender guitar that she loved and used to play in several area bands.

Mari loved the outdoors, animals, most people, fun and family! She had a wicked sense of humor and could find humor in almost any situation. She would make friends and family cackle with her one liners and observations. She was never in a hurry in her life! Life, like food, was to savor and enjoy and not be rushed thru! Especially mashed potatoes and gravy!

We all have our memories of Mari. She loved everyone and would give you the shirt off her back and wasn't afraid to ask you, if she needed something. She never had any enemies and tried hard to be a good person to everyone she met. Marianne always tried to be the best she could with what she had and usually didn't have a lot but was happy to share! She was very proud of her 16, almost 17 years of sobriety. She required little in life to keep her happy and looking back, always gave more than she received.

She received Last Sacraments from her nephew, Fr Tyler Dennis and walked into Heaven where I am sure they are all still laughing and having a great time!

She is survived by her children, Dustin, Rebecca and Velda; brothers, Van and Robert (Cindy); sisters, Renee and Bridget; grandchildren, Tristin, Elijah and Sage; and great granddaughter, Reverie, as well as many nephews, nieces and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Dorothy Dennis; nephew, Toby Dennis; and sister-in-law, Sherrill Dennis.

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