Dennis Francis Bruski

Dennis Francis Bruski, at the age of 74, succumbed to the disease of COPD, and went to be with our Heavenly Father on Friday, May 3, 2019, at his home in Billings.

He was raised on the family farm in Wibaux, along with older brother, Virgil, and younger sister, Marcene. Dennis was especially close with Marcene throughout their lives.

Dennis met and married the love of his life, Shirley Mae Engle, in Billings. They would have celebrated 50 years of marriage on June 29 of this year.

Dennis attended a one-room school in St. Phillips, Montana, until entering Wibaux High School. After graduation, Dennis enlisted in the U.S. Navy on Oct. 3, 1962. He was stationed in Hawaii and, at the end of four years, he was recruited to train new recruits for six months and was honorably discharged on April 17, 1967.

Dennis worked at Pierce Packing in Billings and ultimately joined the USDA as a meat and poultry inspector. This 32-year career took them to Havre; Tacoma, Washington; Wilbur, Washington; and finally to Kalispell. At every one of these places of residence, he and Shirley made many good and lasting friendships. After retirement in 2005, he and Shirley returned to Billings to be closer to family.

Dennis enjoyed spending time with family and friends, hunting, fishing, camping and traveling. He enjoyed working in the yard and took pride in keeping it beautiful. He loved and pampered his dogs Ricky (deceased) and Charlie, who is missing him immensely.

Dennis had a joking personality and took pleasure giving everyone - friends, family, caregivers, checkout clerks, food servers. etc. - a "bad time." He liked hosting events for friends and family, and you could count on Dennis to carve whatever meat was being served. He was happy to use his expertise to sharpen your knives and strongly suggested you keep a box of Band-Aids close by. He was fond of many different foods, and especially enjoyed chocolates. Dennis had a big heart and offered help and assistance to many.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughter Tana; grandson Tailor; three great-granddaughters; two aunts; numerous cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews. Everyone who knew Dennis will miss his wonderful smile and sense of humor.

He was preceded in death by his mother, father, older brother Virgil and sister Marcene.

Arrangements handled by Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, Wicks Lane, Billings , followed by a luncheon.

Interment will be at Yellowstone National Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to VFW, American Legion and Knights of Columbus.

Dennis' family would like to thank Compassus for their care and support.