Dennis D. Pfister
Dennis D. Pfister, age 74, of Grand Island, formerly of Bassett, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2024, at the Grand Island Regional Medical Center.
A Graveside Memorial Service was held on Friday, February 23, 2024, at Bassett Memorial Park Cemetery with Father Mike Wetovick as the celebrant. Memorials were suggested to the family in Dennis’ name for future designation. Hoch Funeral Home, of Bassett, was in charge of the arrangements and condolences may be left for the family at www.hochfuneralhome.com.
Dennis D. Pfister was born in Bassett to Lawrence F. and Guila M. (Lewis) Pfister on January 27, 1950. After graduating from Rock County High School in 1968, he studied mechanics at Milford Trade School.
In 1971, he married his childhood friend Elaine McDermott in Garden City, Kansas, where he was working as a mechanic at Berry Tractor.
They moved back to Bassett where Dennis started Pfister Repair in 1975. This is the same location that his son and family currently operate Pfister Wrecker Service and Repair, LLC, since 2001.
Through the union of Dennis and Elaine arrived a son, Duane, in 1977 and a daughter, Tammy, in 1979. In 1979, he closed the business and worked for KBR Equipment in Ainsworth until 1982 when he moved to Grand Island. Dennis worked as a mechanic for Fairbanks Farm Equipment in Wood River for over 40 years.
He enjoyed his love of stock car racing as a crew chief for the late Mike Graham and the Wild Thing Racing Team. He later was a crew chief for his son Duane when he raced at Stuart for five years. During his life, he adopted a passion for restoring and showing antique tractors and engines throughout the country with Duane and Tammy.
Dennis is survived by his son, Duane (Julie) Pfister, of Long Pine; daughter, Tammy Pfister and partner Tony Bush, of Milwaukie, Oregon; two grandsons, Byron and William Pfister, of Long Pine; and two granddaughters, Chelsea Pfister, of Omaha, and Kylie Jeffries, of Portland, Oregon; two greatgrandchildren (twins) Callie and Carter Pfister, of Omaha; as well as several other family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents; as well as, his life partner Jeanne Nost.