Dennis Gossett, 67

Dennis Edgar Gossett (Webley) died Feb. 12, 2023. True to his nature as a man of mystery, his cause of death is uncertain, but was likely peaceful and occurred while he was asleep.

Dennis, affectionately known as “Goose” by many, was born Oct. 9, 1955, to Anita Montgomery and Carl Charles Webley in Spokane, Wash. Dennis attended Lakeland High School in Rathdrum, Idaho. After high school, Dennis had many adventures with lifelong friends, which included exploring the woods of Idaho and Montana, camping and fishing.

In 1980, he married Shirley K. Ormiston and became a stepfather to Jason Six. In 1981, Dennis then became father to both John C. Gossett and Jennifer E. Gossett, who are not twins. The exact circumstances of the conception and delivery of two babies within the same calendar year may forever remain a mystery but are impressive nonetheless.

Dennis helped to support his family by working as a union steelworker at Kaiser Aluminum’s Trentwood plant for over 20 years. While Kaiser’s illegal lockout of the steelworkers in January of 1999 would forever change Dennis’ and his family’s life, the foundation that he and Shirley helped build for their children would hold strong. Jason became a certified Harley Davidson mechanic and now is an owner of M6 Cycles. John served in the Marine Corps and now works to support his own family. Jennifer attended Western Washington University and served in the PeaceCorps and Americorps before moving to Oregon for work and to obtain her master’s degree in education.

It can be hard to know and describe the legacy of a man who grew up in rural North Idaho, who like many of his generation, had less-than-ideal home environments. Perhaps the best measure of his legacy is the success of his children. By that measure, no one can argue that his legacy will not continue to positively impact this world.

Dennis will be remembered for his uncanny ability to connect with animals, his quirky sense of humor and his love of fishing, motorcycles and his grandkids. Dennis is survived by his stepson, Jason Six, son John Gossett, daughter-in-law Sammy Gossett, daughter Jennifer Gossett, his brothers, John, Levi and Shaun, his half-brother, Steve, his half-sister, Darlene, and his grandkids.

His family invites friends and family to gather, celebrate his life and tell stories not fit to print on Sunday, Aug. 6, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. at Curley’s in Hauser, Idaho.