Dennis was born in Des Moines, Iowa, October 27, 1955 to Richard and Mary Essick. He was the youngest of five children; Beth (Miff) Cutwright, Bill (Linda) Essick, John (Tammy) Essick and Jim Essick. Dennis attended Indianola High School and graduated in 1974. He began work with Otis Elevator where he was employed for over thirty years. It was at Otis where Dennis met and fell in love with his wife, Ruby Dolores Burks Essick. After 30 years of friendship, they were married on December 24, 2002 and built a beautiful home which they enjoyed for only a short time before the Lord called them home.

Dennis is survived by his mother, siblings, and three stepchildren, Dale (Jenny) Belieu III, Diana (Kevin) Day and Jacob Belieu. He is beloved to his seven grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and extended family. His pets, George and Megan were his life long companions. He is preceded in the Lord by his father and wife.

Visitation will be held 1 – 5 p.m., Sunday, December 16 at Overton Funeral Home where family will be present to greet friends from 3 – 5 p.m. Memorial may be given to the family in his name.