Dennis Weidinger

Dennis Weidinger passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of family and friends. In the hours following his passing, so many came forward offering their sympathies and condolences. One recurring theme stood out among the messages of support, and that was that he had such a big heart. And he did, both literally and figuratively. He was willing to do anything for anyone at any time. He gave without any expectation of reciprocation, sometimes to a fault. Material things never meant much to him, but your time was worth the world. He was always delighted to sit on a bench and chat over a cold beer about sports, life, or your next project. Stubborn through and through- he lived life his way. While frustrating at times, this too was one of most endearing qualities.

Born on August 7, 1951, to Joseph and Lois (Jones) Weidinger, Dennis grew up the youngest of his 8 siblings. He grew up in Ballantine, and spent the majority of his adult life in Billings. Adventures took him to Washington- Connell, Vancouver and Walla Walla. He was a carpenter by trade which took him in several directions through the years. Kober homes, the Waterbed factory, scaffold building at the refineries, and Union Organizer, dad dabbled in a bit of everything.

Always working with his hands, he passed on some great skills to us through the years. Patching walls like a pro, building arched doorways, gardening and mowing the perfect lawn. We will always remember these times with him.

We will remember dad for his love of music. There wasn’t anything that the perfect song couldn’t help. He loved chasing hot air balloons and would proudly point out projects in town he was a part of. One of the most notable was helping to build the living wall at Zoo Montana. He was a lifelong Bobcat fan and enjoyed every game he was able to attend be it live, on TV, or the radio.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Larry Weidinger, sisters Joyce McGrail and Connie Martin, and infant sister Kathy. Nephews Stan, Eldon, and Darin Erb.

He is survived by his children: Jacob Weidinger, Emily (Josh) Gullickson, Anna (Robert) Weidinger, and Joseph (Mikala) Weidinger. He had four grandkids that he loved very much: Mason and Riley Gullickson, Maverick Olson, and Kaycen Weidinger. Sisters Sharon Erb and Marcia Klein, brothers John (Kathy) Weidinger, Gary (Gerry) Weidinger. Numerous nieces, nephews, and friends that he considered family- all of whom he loved dearly.

The family will hold a celebration of his life, to be announced at a later date. For his celebration of life, we ask that everyone wear his favorite colors- Tie-Dye or Bobcat Blue and Gold. He was adamant that no tears be shed, only happy memories shared. Maybe a cold drink or two.

We want to thank the Billings Clinic nursing staff, River Ridge Rehab & Nursing’s care and physical therapy staff, and Advanced Care Hospital of Montana for your kindness and care over the last several years. While he may not have been amenable to your methods, he knew you meant well and enjoyed giving you grief.

However you knew our dad, we hope you carry his memory in love and compassion for all you come across.

Dad, it’s buh-bye for now. Oh, and, Go Cats, Go!

We love you more!