Dennis G Carter

Dennis G Carter, originally from Hoopeston, IL, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 16th in Vancouver, WA.  Dennis was 73 years old. 

Dennis is survived by his three children; Dustin (Tony) Carter, Normal, IL, Dana (Ryan) Fritz, Vancouver, WA, and Alex Carter, Ridgefield, WA; his step-brother, Ernie (Laurie) Trent, Champaign, IL; his brother, Ronald (Jennifer) Carter, Colorado Springs, CO; his half-sister, MaryAnn (Greg) Hilleary, Danville, IL; along with several brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, nephews, nieces, great nephews, and great nieces. He is predeceased by his wife, Jean Renne’ (Underwood) Carter; his father, Earl Carter; his step-father, Ernest Trent; his mother, Dorothy (Egnew) Carter-Trent; his brother, Randy Carter; his sister, Becky (Carter) Waters; and his half-brother, Jeff Trent. 

Dennis was a dedicated civic and public servant, first by serving his country in the Air Force, and later the Navy, and then by serving in various law enforcement positions throughout his professional career where he ultimately achieved the rank of Chief of Police leading multiple departments in Illinois. He also was a volunteer EMT and served on various civic committees. When he wasn’t helping others, he enjoyed playing cards (mostly Poker) with friends. He also enjoyed the outdoors and loved to fish. He was also an expert model builder, especially re-creating historical warships and planes. But, most of all, Dennis loved his family.  He was faithfully married to his wife, Renne’, for 45 years looking over her every day, and by being a father who was involved in each of his children’s activities/interests, allowing them to be themselves, growing up with discipline and support. 

Dennis was a man who would go out of his way to help others.  He got his energy from seeing that others were safe and protected. Dennis was a man who saw the good in everyone, and stood up for all to be treated fairly, regardless of their past. The world was a better place because of him, and while he will be greatly missed, we are comforted by all the good he did and the love he expressed to those around him. 

A virtual service celebrating Dennis’s life will be coordinated by Omega Funeral Home (Portland, OR) where condolences can be written online at www.omegaservices.com. Memorials can be sent to the following address:  Dennis Carter Memorial, 2730 Wharton Way, Normal, IL 61761.