Dennis Lee Hove

Dennis Lee Hove, "Pete," 69, of Billings, passed away Saturday morning, April 22, 2017, at Valley Health Care Center, with his family by his side, after a long battle with kidney disease.

Dennis was born on Dec. 6, 1947, in Plentywood, to Theodore and Blanche Hove. He grew up on a ranch and graduated from Westby High School in 1965. He then went on and attended UM, EMC and Billings Business College. On Nov. 9, 1968, he married Rita Jean Spath of Billings. He also served six years in the National Guard.

Dennis worked in sales of wholesale farm machinery his adult life, having owned Countryside Marketing. He served on the Rotary board of directors for two years, being a member for many years, as well as a supporter of the Mt. Equipment Dealers Association and a member of Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. Family was a big priority to Dennis, as he was very loving and generous to each one. He was the life of the party and had a big presence everywhere he went. He was well known for his infectious laugh and joke telling. His love for the outdoors lead him on many hunting, fishing and camping trips, as well as some very cold Montana Grizzly football games, as football was his favorite spectator sport.

Dennis is preceded in death by his parents; brother Les; and infant son, Christopher Lee.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Rita Hove; his daughter, Jill M Hove; son Christopher J Hove; four grandchildren, Andrew, Ary, Rebecca, Zayne; brothers Ron (Kathy), Jim (Daphne), Corey; sisters Sue Arthur (Julian), Karla Christensen (Don); and several nieces and nephews. A special thank you to sister Karla for her kidney donation, which extended his life for over 10 years.

Memorial services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, June 12, at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1108 N. 24th St. West.

Donations may be made to the Rotary Club of Billings 999, Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd or a charity of your choice.