Dennis Ronald (Patrick) Reilly

Dennis Ronald (Patrick) Reilly, 83, of Valparaiso, IN passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025 in Merrillville, IN. Dennis was born on March 3, 1942 in Chicago, IL. Although Dennis resided in St. John, IN during his early years, he resided in Illinois most of his life and later retired to Valparaiso, IN.

Survived by his loving companion of nearly 32 years Jimmie Lynn Stallings; his sister Judith Reilly; his four children: Lana Hatchett, Lisa (John) DiVenere, Kelly Heider (Christopher Attardo), Dennis (Khai) Reilly; his 12 grandchildren: Danielle, Nicholas, Ryan, Brandi, Lisa, Tiffany, Dennis, Brittany, Daniel, Dakota, April, Sierra.

Further survived by many precious great grandchildren; adoring nephews and nieces, spending much time with Vicky, Molly and Kim; and many more family and friends.

Preceded in death by his loving parents Bertrand (Bert) Reilly and Hazel Reilly, nee Hennessy of Northlake, IL.

Dennis attended St. John Vianney Catholic School in Northlake, IL for elementary school where he was an altar server. He went on to East Leyden High School in Franklin Park, IL before going into the United States Air Force in January 1960-May 1962. He later married and raised his four children. Although Dennis was an Aircraft Mechanic in the USAF, his life-long career was in Heating, Air Conditioning and Sales. 

Dennis loved being outdoors in nature; whether it was just sitting and relaxing, or working in the yard. He preferred being outdoors and spent much time over the years on his boat in the summer with Jimmie Lynn, family and friends. He loved fishing and went any chance he could. Whether it was a big fishing trip or just on his boat to fish or take a ride on the lake, he was at home near water.

He also enjoyed many other things like golfing, family and friends over for barbecues, gatherings, playing horseshoes, holidays, travel, music and much more. His Catholic faith and family were also a very important part of his life and meant so much to him. Dennis loved his church, Nativity of Our Savior Parish in Portage, IN and had a special bond with Deacon Dennis.

Dennis had an amazing jolly and funny personality, unique to only him. He was known for his joyful, contagious laugh and witty sense of humor. That was something everyone knew about him and loved. He was very funny and made everyone laugh whenever he was around. We will miss him dearly and he will forever be in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, Dennis would only ask you to just take time to live, laugh, love and appreciate one another every day.

Please join us in celebrating Dennis's life on Monday, June 23, 2025

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church at 991 S. Waukegan Rd. Lake Forest, IL 60045 at 12:30 PM (Old Church)

Interment with military honors will be held at Fort Sheridan National Cemetery on Vattman Rd. Lake Bluff, IL 60044 at 2:00 PM.

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

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