Bitterroot Valley – Dennis Leroy Falk, Loving Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, 63, passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2015 in his home, which he proudly kept serene, surrounded by trees and water. Dennis was born July 9, 1951 in Hamilton, Montana to Henry Carl Falk and Reba C. Reynolds Falk.
Dennis spent his younger days exploring every inch of the Bitterroot Valley, along the banks of our cherished river and on the trails to hidden mountain lakes. He knew every secret fishing hole and hidden asparagus patch; he knew the best hunting, huckleberry picking, and morel mushroom locations. Dennis left his footprint around nearly every corner in the Bitterroot and Missoula Valleys. Dennis could catch a fish out of any mud puddle. A legendary outdoorsman, he shared his love for Montana with his loved ones with family adventures, hunting or camping trips, and summertime evening “dunks” in the river.
Along with his passion for nature, he was a talented athlete. He played football, basketball, and track for the Hamilton Broncs where he received numerous awards and accolades for his abilities. Dennis went on to play Defensive End at University of Montana for the ’69 and 70’ football teams and was a member of the 1970 Grizzly Hall of Fame team.
Dennis led his life with great passion and was guided by his immense heart and love for family. He is loved and will be missed by everyone whose life he touched.
Dennis is survived by his wife Teren Falk, five loving children: Derick Falk, Dustin Falk, Alisha Falk, Lisa Falk, Nathan Chapman, 10 grandchildren, two great grandchildren, Dennis’s brother Jim Falk and wife Peggy, and sister Charlotte Kelleher and husband Pat. Dennis had a very large extended family that share his love for the Bitterroot.
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, July 9 at 10 a.m. at Kiwanis/River Park in Hamilton, lower level, next to the river. Story sharing, food, and refreshments to follow at the Daly-Leach Chapel. In case of inclement weather, celebration will be moved to Daly-Leach Chapel. Condolences and memories may be shared the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.