Dennis would have turned 39 today...

He would have watched his sister Darlena marry the love of her life, his cousin Jonah finally receive his post-Covid college graduation ceremony, his mom learn to play pickleball, his aunt ("Lees") transform her yard into a gorgeous garden with flower seeds she carried home from Alaska, planted in his honor.

He would have had more time to wow the world with his presence.

He would have found another amazing adventure to embark upon.

He would have made more friends to love and support.

He would have used more time as it should be used: with verve and gusto, with passion and effort.

He would have done all of this, and so much more.

But most of all, he would have been here, with all of us, in body and soul.

He was the boy his mom wished for once upon a star, and when he was born, he shined so brightly, he became every brilliant dream she wished for in a son.