I worked with Dennis at DeVry and I remember him coming into the office and asking if he had shown me a picture of his pride and joy, and he would then whip out the above picture. Always a jokester that guy. Thinking about him since his birthday was just a few days ago. RIP in my friend.

Went to Southeast High School with Dennis. Graduating class of 1966.  
My sincere condolences to Dennis’s family.

Dennis had so many qualities - caring,  dedication to God & Country,  just a couple.  His friendship was cherished by me for many years. Always there when needed!!
I will miss him 😢💔
Always.....Linda

I am sorry to hear about Dennis’ passing. I was  in the same grade as Dennis at Knotts Elementary School, and later we both moved on to SE High. It sounds like he had a full life with the Navy, family,  and law enforcement   I know he will be missed.  
 Johnna Joslin Hoag
 SE Class of 1966

My sincere condolences to the Gargotta family, I am so sorry  for your loss!

I met Dennis way back when I was a KCPD Dispatcher (beginning 1980, I believe) "over the air" so to speak, not knowing just what a special kind of guy he was! I then met him in person, through our late mutual friend Kathy Pierce (Major, KCPD).  He was, you know, just one of those "good guys" and I was blessed to call him my friend!      
I want to give my heartfelt condolences to Kristi and the rest of his family.  I have prayed to the Lord to give Kristi and his family peace of mind and comfort during their time of sorrow.
There is a long-ago saying that comes to my mind at this time... "The Best Antiques Are Old Friends".  To me, that is Dennis!
                                                   RIP My Friend,
                                           Susan Niebur Scherer

Continued post (sorry so long) 

Kristie, I wish there was something I could do or say to take away your pain. Losing your best friend and soulmate is something I cannot imagine. I’ve heard it said to feel such a deep loss means that you had to have felt a great love, and I know that was in fact the case. The love you carried and showed for each other will forever be one of my favorites. Thank you for always being there for us, and we will continue to be here for you however you need us to. We love you.

For 13 years every time I open my front door, you are one of the first things I think about because your beautiful home is the first thing I see. I have said many times that I have the best neighbors, always there to look out for us, always there to comfort us, bring us delicious meals anytime we have been down. Incredible people who go out of their way for others. A constant reminder that there are still good people in this world. Your loss will be felt tremendously. I know God said it was your time, but we sure will miss you. Our community will miss you. In the summer if we didn’t see you outside we could usually check messenger or texts and there you were so we knew all was well. When I first moved into our home, I was told about the neighbor who was crazy about his grass, but can we talk about that grass for a second? 🤌🏼 It really is perfection! So I understand it Dennis! And we were sure to let all of our visitors know that they had better not mess it up! 😂 We grew a bond and friendship unlike any other we have, and you watched as most of our kids grew up and grew out of the house always wishing them the best and even helping to guide our Son when he joined the US Navy. When our new baby arrived you were there for us, showing your love and support, and I couldn’t thank you enough. We will miss your stories, your smile, and your genuine kindness. Anytime we weren’t home we knew we could count on you to ensure all was safe back at home. I know you’re watching over us in a different way now, and just want to let you know that we will help to stand watch and will be there for your beautiful Wife in any way we can. We love you Dennis, and will see you again one day and have the biggest pizza party yet!

As a Leawood Detective I worked with Dennis on several occasions. When I called him for help regarding an investigation  he was always there with a smile and ready to work. We had great times working together and he was a fantastic Investigator.  I learned a great deal from Dennis that helped me throughout my career.  I last saw him a couple of years ago at lunch and it was a great time talking about the old days. May you Rest In Peace my friend Kansas City has lost a great man!

Dennis was a great cop and a great friend. He taught me a lot when I was a young officer and continues to be my friend. He will always be thought of as a dear friend. 
I never heard or heard of anyone saying Dennis ever talked bad about anyone. He had an infectious, yet humble, smile!!!
I will surely miss him.
My deepest condolences to the family and the KCMOPD family of his!!!

Dennis was a very good friend of mine.  I worked with him at the KCPD where he was always supportive of me as an officer and a detective.  He was a great mentor, officer, and detective.  He was always fun and cheerful.  I remember visiting his home many years ago and enjoying his salt water fish.  I took my son there once at Dennis' invitation so he could enjoy them too.  Christie put up with his kindness to his law enforcement family and welcomed us all.  In more recent years, I got messages from him nearly every night that shared thoughts that were important to him.  Dennis was a patriot and loved his country, his city, his friends, and especially his family.  I will miss hearing from him and I will miss his friendship.  Love you Dennis.

I was fortunate to know and work with Dennis at KCPD. He was an excellent officer and a wonderful friend. We talked often about our shared Navy experiences in Viet Nam. Dennis was known throughout the department as skilled and capable investigator. He will be missed by his many coworkers who mourn his passing. Rest in eternal peace.

Walk well, my Brother. (Inuit Prayer)

To family and friends of Dennis.  He was such a nice and thoughtful guy. Though many don’t like FB after all the years away from HS we found so much in common again on FB.  We agreed on so many things.  I will miss our conversation on messenger.  Take Care my Friend, 
Margie Ross Gray

Dennis was a sincere friend, host and enthusiast. May he rest in eternal peace and be reunited with his Parents, family and friends who have gone before him. I am the richer for knowing him.

I knew Dennis for decades.  Worked with him on the KCPD in many different areas.  Always a sharp thinker and good officer.  Always enjoyed his company.  Especially the last couple of years as we got to know each other even better after he got his Corvette and joined with me and the other Corvette owners in the area.  Just shocked and saddened that he has left us.  I know I'll miss him.

OBITUARY

Dennis Martin Gargotto

7 March, 1948 – 18 December, 2023

Mt. Moriah, Newcomer and Freeman Funeral Home

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