Dennis L. Burris, age 76, passed away on Friday, October 22, 2021, at his residence in Ada.
Dennis was born on August 12, 1945, to Dorothea Newland. His father was Robert Newland. Dennis graduated from Ada High School in 1964. He and Kathryn James were married on June 12, 1965.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Kathryn (Kathy); his son, Brent (Sharon) Burris; a grandson, DJ (Michelle) Burris of Kenton; and two great grandchildren: Brooklyn, age 8 and Colton, age 5.
From an early age Dennis excelled in sports. His senior year, Ada High School won the district track meet. Dennis scored points in high hurdles, low hurdles, high jump, and he anchored the mile relay team. His record time in high hurdles was 14.6, which is still the record at Ada High School.
Dennis also participated in football and basketball, breaking the record for most points in a basketball game. Although offered a Division I football scholarship, Dennis chose to stay in Ada and play football and run track for Ohio Northern University. A chance to farm came along and after two years of college sports, Dennis chose to switch to farming. Lots of hard work, long hours and many acres were the norm. Dennis grew corn, soybeans and tons and tons of Jolly Time Popcorn. He also raised beef cattle.
Dennis enjoyed watching his grandson DJ play football at Kenton and the University of Minnesota. In later years, he enjoyed watching his great grandchildren play sports in Kenton. His great grandkids loved Papa Denny and he loved them. Fishing with them in his pond was a special treat for all. Dennis enjoyed the last several years vacationing with his family at his home in Vero Beach, Florida.
Dennis is also survived by: a sister, Diane Hoffer; and three brothers: Steve, Bobby, and Mike. Dennis was preceded in death by his sister, Brenda and brother, Jeff.
Funeral Services will begin at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, October 29, 2021, at Hanson-Neely-Allison Funeral & Cremation Services, Ada. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Ada. The funeral service for Dennis will be live streamed on the Hanson-Neely-Allison Funeral & Cremation Services Facebook Page beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, October 29.
Friends may call from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 28, 2021, at Hanson-Neely-Allison Funeral & Cremation Services, Ada and one hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Friday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675.
