Dennis Irving Bright

With deep regret, immense sadness, and abiding love, the family of Dennis Irving Bright announces the passing of our beloved Brother, Uncle and dear friend from this mortal existence and into the loving embrace of his Heavenly Father. On March 11 2025, Dennis was joyfully reunited with his parents, Leah June Bright and Elmer Arthur Bright, who had preceded him in death.

Having completed his earthly journey, Dennis now rests with his Savior, as he takes the next step in The Plan of Salvation toward the eternal glory prepared for us all by a loving Heavenly Father.

Dennis will always be cherished in memory and is survived by his sister, Cheryl Lynne Rowley; his nieces, Daphne Denise Montgomery, Leah Dalene Rowley, and Lileena Toni Rowley; and his nephews, E Derek Rowley and Danny Melvin Rowley.

Born on April 24, 1942, Dennis lived a life marked by resilience, learning, and an enduring sense of wonder. As the son of an Air Force serviceman, he spent much of his childhood overseas. Following World War II, his father was stationed in Germany for two separate tours to assist in the nation’s reconstruction. During these years, Dennis and his sister, Cheryl, had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand not only the rebuilding of a country but also the rich cultural heritage of the German people. Their time abroad, spanning over nine years, left a lasting impression on Dennis and helped shape his perspective on the world.

While living in Germany, Dennis faced one of the greatest challenges of his life—contracting polio, a debilitating neurological disease that often robbed individuals of their mobility, independence, and, in many cases, their very lives. For several months, he was confined to an iron lung, fighting to survive. Yet, with determination and the unwavering support of his family, he endured years of rehabilitation. His father spent countless hours helping him recover, stretching and massaging his muscles after each painful surgery. From the ages of six to eighteen, Dennis had already undergone 17 surgeries, including tendon transplants and muscular reconstruction, to restore his mobility. Despite walking with a limp and bearing the physical scars of his battle, he never allowed these challenges to define him.

At just six years old, Dennis became a poster child for polio awareness, his image was displayed at clinics, military bases, and dispensaries to educate others about the devastating effects of the disease and the importance of vaccines. His intelligence and determination shone through, proving that even in adversity, he would rise above.

Dennis pursued higher education with the same tenacity. In 1967, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Fresno State College. Of note, among the four signatures on his diploma was that of then-Governor Ronald Reagan. His thirst for knowledge led him to continue his education through various university programs, always striving to expand his understanding.

Throughout his career, Dennis worked in several roles before finding his true calling as a Radiology Technician at the VA Hospital. His dedication to his work and the veterans he served earned him numerous recognitions and awards. He took great pride in his profession, knowing that he was making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dennis had many passions. He had a deep love for cars and enjoyed admiring the architecture and design of homes. Fishing was one of his greatest joys—something he learned at an early age by his father’s side. He cherished family camping trips, where he would befriend other children at the campgrounds. Later in life he would spend hours fishing the beaver creeks and mountain streams of the Great Rocky Mountains.