Rapid City – Dennis Lee Weeks,71, died at his home on October 1, 2021 following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born March 7, 1950 in Columbia, Caldwell Parish, Louisiana. His family moved to Willits, CA in Mendocino County when he was 10 years old and he graduated from Willits High School in 1968 after which he began working as a logger in the Redwoods. In 1981 he began his civil service career at Red River Army Depot in Texarkana, TX and transferred up to Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City, SD in 1989 where he was warehouse supervisor for the 28 ^th Civil Engineer Squadron until he retired.

He was an avid fisherman and hunter – particularly with his black powder rifle. He loved taking family road trips to explore the beautiful state and national parks, with Yosemite and Bighorn being two of his favorites. He instilled a love of the outdoors and camping in his children and grandchildren. He was passionate in his love for music and movies, and was fascinated with American history, especially about the exploration and settlement of the western territories and frontiersman. He was extremely generous man to his family and friends and was always willing to help a neighbor or even a perfect stranger if he could. He was a sensitive, kind, and gentle soul who had a soft spot for rescuing small dogs and cats who needed homes. He loved to garden and was one of the better cooks in the family – even making Duck L 'orange for family Thanksgiving one year. He was a die-hard Raiders fan from the beginning and loved that team unconditionally no matter how hard they made it – much the same way he was with his family. Dennis remained brave, sharp, and fully present to the very end with his sense of humor full intact delivering his one-liners that brought laughter through tears for his family and caregivers.

There will be a casual celebration of life at the home with details forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Humane Society of the Black Hills in his memory.

Dennis is survived by his ex-wife: Dixie Weeks of Rapid City; one son: Jesse Reed Weeks of Rapid City; three daughters: Darla Jean Weeks of Vancouver, WA, Cherilyn Denise Weeks of Rapid City; and Katrina Jean Weeks of Rapid City; 8 grandchildren: Michael Wagner, Bradley Crumpton, Austin Crumpton, Brentley Felty, Eli Weeks, Sylvan Weeks, Bodi Weeks, and Liberty Weeks; and two great grandchildren: Carson Mansfield-Crumpton and Ryker Crumpton.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Billie Jean Martin and Dewey Lee Weeks, two sisters: Sheila Holder and Marilyn Cudrey; and one brother: Steve Weeks.