After an extended battle with cancer, Dennis passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family and friends on January 10, 2024. Dennis was born to Ron and Nellie Johnson on September 24, 1959, in Gordon, Nebraska. Dennis was always immensely proud of his ranching and Nebraska Sandhills heritage. Dennis moved to Rapid City during middle school, where he lived throughout the remainder of his life.

Dennis was an accomplished carpenter and builder, working as a supervisor and project manager for several well-known contracting companies. He owned and operated K&J Builders until his retirement. He and his wife Kathy also owned and operated Black Hills Caverns for 24 years.

Dennis was the proud father of two sons. He never tired of telling people about his boys' accomplishments, and the love he had for them and his grandchildren.

Dennis had a gift for meeting and developing friendships with people. He had lifelong friendships with numerous people that he had met along the way.

Dennis was an avid trapshooter, and upon his retirement, he became profoundly serious and successful in this endeavor. He, Kathy, Jack his Irish Setter, and later Jill, traveled throughout the country in their RV where he competed in many high-level competitions and tournaments. He was extremely competitive and shot at high level. Dennis earned three All American titles in 2021, 2022, and 2023.  This was an amazing accomplishment considering his health challenges with cancer. This exemplified his drive and commitment to the sport. During his trap shooting career, he shot at over 250,000 registered competitive targets.

Dennis was preceded in death by his mother Nellie Johnson. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Kathy, sons Cody (Abi) and grandchildren Hayleigh, Hunter, and Holt of Rapid City, and Jeremiah (Karen) and grandchildren Logan, Makiah, Nash & Oaklee of Gillette, Wyoming.  He is also survived by his father Ron Johnson, sister Rondell (Leonard) VanAusdle, Laura (Vahid) Tavassoli, and Marsha Hauck and numerous nephews, nieces, aunts and uncles, and many friends and fellow trapshooters.

A memorial has been established to Rapid City Trap Club Youth Shooting P.O. Box 3273 Rapid City, SD 57709.