Dennis Irvin Foster

Dennis I. Foster, age 80, passed away on Wednesday, July 13, 2022. He was born on October 31, 1941, to Irvin and Adeline (Schmidt) Foster in Dearborn, Michigan. He was raised in and around Dearborn graduating from Saint Claire Shores High School, MI. He spent many happy summers helping on his grandparents farm outside of Port Sanilac, MI. Dennis joined the Navy in September 1959, finishing his enlistment at Lemoore Naval Air Station in California. He began his career with Southern California Edison in 1964, retiring as a Major Accounts Executive in 1996.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 45 years Marlene of Visalia; son Scott of Tulare; daughter Stacey; and son in law Philip Thompson of Iowa. He also leaves behind grandchildren Colton, Helaina, Autumn and Kaitlyn; nieces Amy, Jennifer and Shannon; nephews Sterling and Ryan. Also left behind are sisters in law Shirl Mendonca, Carrie Smith and Cindy Mendonca.

Dennis taught the importance of consistency and stability through his calm, steadfast presence in our lives. Dennis was patient with life, he drove the long way home, watched the credits roll at the end of a movie, and savored every last bite of a meal. In small moments when he winked or shared a smirk with you, time slowed down just long enough to remember how amusing life is. Those moments were his gift to this world.

Dennis loved spending time with his friends on the golf course, especially the 19th hole. His love for his classic cars never ended. He was a long time member of the Tulare Small Town Cruizers.

We want to thank the wonderful staff on Station 1 at Westgate Gardens for their great care of Dennis during these last few months.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Parkinson’s research at michaeljfox.org or by mail to: Donation Processing, The Michael J Fox Foundation, P O Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014.

Graveside services will be held at Visalia Public Cemetery, 1300 West Goshen, Visalia at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.millerchapel.com for the FOSTER family.