Dennis L. Diehl, 74, of Jersey Shore passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at home surrounded by family.
Born February 24, 1950 in Jersey Shore, he was a son of the late LaRue C. and Beverly L. (Bullock) Diehl.
Dennis graduated in 1968 from W.H.S. where he was an outstanding wrestler. He proudly served his country as a United States Marine during the Vietnam Era where he completed one tour of duty. For over 40 years, he was a self-employed contractor in the area and was known by all as a hardworking man.
Dennis was a lifetime member of Gander Mountain Hunting Club where he enjoyed many adventures from the age of 15 until a few weeks ago with his lifelong friends, a.k.a. the “cabin boys”. He loved woodworking and refinishing furniture. Dennis cherished the outdoors, whether hunting, doing yard work, or completing his honey-do list. He absolutely adored his grandchildren and the time spent with family, especially at his son and daughter-in-law’s cabin. Dennis had a way of striking up conversations with anyone that would listen. He shared a lifetime of smiles, stories, and laughs with us. We will miss his handsome smile and witty humor, but most of all his generous heart.
Surviving in addition to his loving wife, Karen Hickoff Diehl, are three children, Jessica E. Knittle (Todd), Noah W. Diehl (Alison), and Caleb E. Diehl; five grandchildren, Trinity, Alyvia, Chesney, Ezra, and Jonah; a brother, Ken W. Diehl; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Lee Bullock.
A celebration of life followed by a luncheon will be held Saturday, August 31st from 1-4pm at Sacred Oak Vista, 2073 Seely Run Rd, Jersey Shore.
Memorial donations in Dennis’ name may be made to the American Red Cross or you may consider donating blood as this life-saving resource helps many patients like Dennis.
The family would like to thank Dr. Robert Edward Purcell, Jr. for saving his life 12 years ago, UPMC Hospice for their wonderful care in these last few months and the countless medical professionals that kindly endured his witty humor and lengthy chats. Dennis often proudly achieved a note on his patient chart stating, “he is a talker”. A special thank you to Dr. Tariq Rahman at Geisinger Interventional Radiology whose lifesaving hands gave us 12 additional years together.
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