Dennis J. Smith

Born in 1940 and raised in Wisconsin, Dennis grew up with strong values of hard work, service and family. He was one of three boys in a close-knit family, and from an early age, he displayed a zest for life and a drive to give back. He was an Eagle Scout — a distinction that mirrored his lifelong dedication to service — and an accomplished ski jumper, embodying courage and determination even in his youth.

Dennis pursued his studies with the same passion he brought to every area of life. He earned a bachelor of business administration from the University of Wisconsin, majoring in personnel management. Later, he completed a master’s degree in guidance and counseling from the University of Evansville in Indiana — an academic path that reflected his lifelong interest in helping others thrive.

A devoted husband to his beloved wife, Cynthia, Dennis shared a joyful and enduring 63-year marriage that began shortly after their college graduation. Together, they raised three children, nurturing a family rooted in love, respect, and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. Many of their happiest memories were made in Yosemite, where Dennis and Cynthia spent countless summers, tent camping with their children and friends. With guitars in hand and a spirit of adventure, they hiked the high country, instilling in their children a love for nature, music, and togetherness.

One of the family’s cherished traditions was skiing — an activity that connected Dennis’s youthful love of the sport with the joy of family adventure. From the peaks of Colorado and Utah to the snow-covered trails of Canada, the Smith family explored ski resorts throughout North America, creating a lifetime of treasured memories together.

Later in life, Dennis delighted in his role of grandfather and great-grandfather, cherishing the moments spent with his six grandchildren and great-granddaughter, celebrating their milestones with pride and joy.

Dennis’s professional journey reflected his gift for leadership and his commitment to helping others grow. With nearly 25 years at Bristol Myers Squibb, culminating as vice president of human resources, and later as the founder of a successful consulting firm, he guided countless individuals and organizations toward greater success. His focus on fairness, development, and community well-being set a standard admired by colleagues and clients alike.

Beyond his professional life, Dennis had a sense of responsibility for the collective good, sourced in his deep and abiding Christian faith. Over nearly four decades in Claremont, he served in numerous civic roles — from the Planning Commission to the Rotary Club, the Chamber of Commerce, the Red Cross, and the Committee on Aging. He was a driving force behind the expansion of senior services, including the Joslyn Senior Center and Larkin Park. His leadership with the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) exemplified his deep commitment to caring for his neighbor, and sense of civic responsibility.

For his tireless dedication, Dennis was honored as grand marshal in Claremont’s Fourth of July Parade, and with the Los Angeles County Older American Award, a recognition of the lasting impact he made on the lives of others — especially older adults whose dignity and quality of life he championed.

In retirement at Hillcrest, Dennis continued to share his wisdom and leadership, helping to establish a CERT program, serving on numerous resident committees, and embracing the spirit of community that he so fully embodied throughout his life.

Dennis Smith will be remembered not only for his many accomplishments but for the way he lived — with heart, humility, and an abiding faith in the power of service and community. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the community he served so well.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; an older brother, Jaren; his wife, Mary; and their oldest daughter.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia; sons Steven (Jennifer) and Darren (Klaus Gelinsky); daughter Catherine (Paul) Oakley; grandchildren Theressa (Kyle) Anderson, Amanda and Hailee Smith, Andrew, Zachary and Tyler Oakley; and great-granddaughter Myah Anderson. He is also survived by his younger brother, Jeffrey (Lana); brother in-law Phillip Blank; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and their families.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, Aug. 4, at 9:45 a.m. at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church, 724 E. Bonita Ave., San Dimas, Calif.

A Celebration of Life will follow at 2 p.m. at the Hillcrest Meeting House, 2705 Mountain View Drive, La Verne, Calif.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Dennis’s honor to the following organizations that reflect his enduring love of nature and wilderness: Hillcrest Reforestation Fund, 2705 Mountain View Drive, La Verne, CA 91750; California Botanic Garden, 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont, CA 91711.