Robert Dennis Memorial Fund

Robert (Bob) Dennis was an accomplished piano player.  He loved to write, play, and listen to music.  Bob received years of instruction and even taught piano to children.  He was extremely humble regarding his own talents.  While in his teens, he won a statewide contest in Wisconsin.  In later years, Bob once auditioned for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, where he earned a call back for a second audition.  Sadly, he did not have the confidence in his ability to return.

Bob's passions included his family, his work as a hospital cook and supervisor, animals, especially cats, the beach and playing piano for church or just for his children.  He loved to play hymns, as well as classical music.  Bob was the youngest of 6 children born to Laurence and Irene Dennis in Wisconsin Rapids, WI.  He attended Hylandale Academy in Rockland, WI before marrying and going to work at Hinsdale Sanitarium and Hospital (now AMITA Health) in Hinsdale, IL, where he devoted more than 35 years as a cook and supervisor.  Bob was married to Janice (Wilson) Dennis.  He had 3 children with a former wife, and 4 grandchildren.

To honor Bob's memory, his family has chosen to make a donation to the Monroe Street Arts Center (MSAC) in Madison, WI, which offers music and art lessons to students age 4-adult.  MSAC is a non-profit 501(c)(3) school.  We are asking that you help us honor Bob's memory by making a contribution through this fundraiser.  It is the goal of the family that we are able to raise enough money to fund at least one child's education and passion for music.  Donations may be tax-deductible.

MSAC's music instruction programs include piano, violin, viola, cello, voice, guitar, harmonica, trumpet, and bass.  The center serves nearly 900 students with only 25 teachers.  You can learn more about MSAC at http://monroestreetarts.org.