Dennis Baltzell, 62

Dennis was born on June 22, 1954, in Glendive, Mont., to Theodore “Howard” Baltzell and Dorothy M. Hunt Baltzell. Dennis left this Earth peacefully and entered joyously into heaven on July 10, 2016, in Spokane Valley, Wash.

In 1955, the family moved to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, making it home for his childhood. He graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1972, enlisting in the Air Force in the fall. Upon completion of his basic and technical school, he was stationed at Hill Air Force Base. In the spring of 1973, he married his high school sweetheart, Greta Greenfield. They spent the next four years in Germany and Georgia, and added two wonderful children to the family. Honorably discharged in 1978, Dennis moved his family to Phoenix, Ariz., working for several years before relocating to Minnesota; here he worked for Republic Airlines for four years.

Wanting to be closer to family and continue his education, they moved to Spokane, Wash., where he resided for the last 33 years. Dennis completed his Bachelor of Social Work in 1987 and worked the following 24 years for Spokane Public Schools. He supported students and worked various positions; as long as he could help others — that was his joy. He retired in 2012 only to go on to work for Spokane Community College, helping students facing challenges to achieve their full potential.

In 2013, ALS was diagnosed. The past 2.5 years Dennis spent his time volunteering at St. Mary’s School; listening and guiding many. 2016 brought more changes as communication and mobility were impaired. On July 10, 2016, while ALS took his body, Christ freed his soul.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Greta; daughter Christine Monrroy; son Aaron (Megan); brothers Ronald (Zena) Baltzell and Jerry (Barbara) Baltzell; grandchildren Caleb Monrroy, Sophia Monrroy, Titus Baltzell, Genevieve Baltzell and Conrad Baltzell; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Howard Baltzell; mother Dorothy (Hunt) Baltzell and sister Sharon (Baltzell) Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer a memory card and donations can be made to the ALS Evergreen Chapter or Hospice of Spokane.

A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 23, 2016, at Eastpoint Church, 15503 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley, WA 99037. Since Dennis was an avid Gonzaga and Seahawks fan, gameday apparel is welcomed at the celebration.

Community Cremation & Funeral, Spokane Valley, is in charge of the arrangements.