Dennis John Rutzen

Dennis John Rutzen, 81, passed away August 16, 2021, at the Pelican Valley Senior Living, Pelican Rapids, MN. Dennis John Rutzen was born on October 2, 1939, to Frank and Mae (Pierce) Rutzen in Worthington, MN. He grew up in Brewster, MN and graduated in 1958. He worked until joining the US Army in 1961, he served in Korea and after was stationed at Fort Ord, CA. He was honorably discharged in 1964. He moved to Chicago, Il where he started working for Delta Airlines. On June 12th, 1965, Dennis was united in marriage to the love of his life, Jeanne Elizabeth Thomsen at the First Presbyterian Church of Round Lake, MN. They moved back from Chicago and in 1967 built a home in Burnsville, MN. He started working for Western Airlines and later Delta Airlines. In 1970, they welcomed their daughter, Dena Michele. He retired from the Delta Airlines after 56 years in 1995. He started working part-time for Skateville roller skating rink as a handman. In 2002, Dennis and Jeanne packed up 35 years of memories and moved to Pelican Rapids, MN to be closer to his daughter and grandchildren. Dennis loved tending his yard and had the best, greenest, and most weed free grass in the neighborhood. Dennis was self-taught and played the organ and accordion throughout his adult life and enjoyed sharing his gift with the Pelican Valley Nursing Home when he first moved to the area. He was always tinkering, fixing, and building things in his free time. Throughout his life, Dennis enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, on the deck, playing pool, playing cards or just relaxing and enjoying good conversation. Dennis is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jeanne, one daughter: Dena (Wayne) Johnson, of Pelican Rapids, two grandchildren Ian (Alex Gerchy) and Grace, both of Pelican Rapids, brother David (Wanda) Rutzen of Worthington, MN, brother-in-law Rollie (Jolene) Thomsen of Round Lake, MN, sister-in-law Irene Rutzen, sister-in-law Carol Rutzen, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Dale and Donald, and sister-in-law Connie. No services will be planned at this time. Please keep Dennis's family in your thoughts and prayers.