Dennis G. DeMark

Dennis G. DeMark, age 71, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 21, 2012. Dennis was born in Racine, January 11, 1941, son of the late Louis and Carmella M. (Nee: Wells) DeMark.

Dennis ventured into the restaurant business prior to graduating from St. Catherine’s High School “Class of 1959.” He first worked at the Racine Country Club as second cook and then at Meadowbrook Country Club as a chef. He later attended barber school, where he worked in his cousin’s shop and eventually owned his own barber shop, DeMark's Forum on Douglas Avenue. While cutting hair, Dennis taught cooking classes at a vocational school. Returning to his true passion, in 1970, Dennis opened Alfredo’s Supper Club, operating until 1987. He has since owned and operated Oh Dennis! Saloon and Charcoal House providing Racine with the best ribs ANYWHERE.

On New Year's Eve, December 31, 1989, in Las Vegas, NV, he was united in marriage to JoAnn E. (Nee: Hess) Hermes. In his spare time he enjoyed golfing, Green Bay Packers and his trips to Disney World. Above all, he loved his family, had a great work ethic, and treasured time socializing with his customers and friends. He will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his loving wife, JoAnn; his son, Michael DeMark; his daughters, Beth (Todd) Mitchell, Jody (Jerry) Tarwid; his granddaughter, Jessica Burch; sister, Georgene (David) Edmonston; sisters-in-law, Judie Oberst (Lorenzo Sanchez), Patti (Edwin) Jirgensen; nephews, Kevin (Terri) Edmonston, Kenneth (Heather) Edmonston, Keith Edmonston; great-nephew and nieces, Dominic, Madalyn and Hailey Edmonston; other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Nick and Theresa DeMark.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 28, 2012, at 3 p.m. at the funeral home with Deacon Russell Missureli officiating. Private interment will be held. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Saturday at the funeral home from noon until time of service at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to H.O.P.E. Safehouse or to Mayo Clinic, Department of Research, Department of Cardiology, 200 First Avenue, Rochester, MN 55905 have been suggested.

A very special thank you to the Caledonia Rescue Department and to the two angelic nurses who assisted Dennis.

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888