In Memoriam: Dennis Presser (1958-2013)

I honor your devotion to the Sacred Land, and your drumming and laughter.  I honor your story-telling, and your deep wells of lore and tradition.  Blessings to you on this passing!

Dennis, may your drumming light up the Summer Lands as you make your journey. You will be missed terribly by all of us. Sending love and light to you, Laurie, Hunter and Allegra.

You were one of the first drummers I met at PSG, and a continued friend there:) You will be remembered for your friendly laughter, smiles and inspiration to all of us!!!

Dennis: Your journey comes as a shock to all of us.  A hole has been left in our spirits and our community with your departure. I shall always remember your bold spirit, your miles-wide grin, your quick wit.  How I enjoyed spending time in the circle of your humor and intellect!  You were one of the first drummers I shared a beat with in this community. Your influence was strong, your impact wide; you are cared for and loved and laughed with, and we now hold you in our memories tenderly.  Sweet journeys Dennis... until the next time we share a rhythm.

Thank you, Dennis, for friendship over the years.  Thanks for your environmental education and preservation work, your community drumming and celebrations, and for your wisdom, humor, and support.  Condolences, love and support to Laurie, Hunter, and Allegra, and to all of us mourning his death.  May we take comfort in knowing that this world is a better and greener place because of Dennis.

This is a sad moment. Many tears and a deep sense of loss. Dennis was kind to me, encouraging, generous of spirit and practicality. In my eyes, I saw the leader, the teacher, the friend, the parent, the adventurer, the artist. He invited me to his table and his hall and helped me find parts of myself that I treasure. He will be sorely missed.

The Same as it Ever Was

i will miss his smiling eyes but i will not miss him, i will miss the enormious laughter, but i will not miss him, i will miss the calming presents but i will not miss him, i will miss the stories and cheese and mead but i will not miss him, I will miss the focus and the strength, but i will not miss him, I will miss the wisdoms both spoken and not but i will not miss him, I will miss the Lore, the Tradition, and the Bard but is will not miss him for in truth he is and will be in my heart of hearts the same as he ever was.....

Blessings on the journier and apon the journey.

Shanti Shanti Shanti

Godspeed Dennis. Laurie, Hunter and Allegra, you are deeply in my thoughts and prayers. May the goddess envelope you in this time of sorrow.  I wish I had known him better.  

What a devastating blow. I just want to reach out to Laurie and Hunter and Allegra and cradle you all in loving arms. I think of Dennis' huge generosity of spirit and his welcoming smile ... he will be sorely missed. A brief visit to Dennis' Facebook page reminded me of his deep commitment to causes...and the goats yelling like humans video found laughter inside my numbness. My thoughts and energies are with you all and encircling the web of Madison family and friends. Much love, Liz

Thank you for making this world better for you having been in it. Looking forward to catching up with you some day, drumming once again the heartbeat of the mother. Perhaps at that time, she will be green and healthy again!

Although I didn't know Dennis all that well, ever time I did see him he was friendly, warm, and open.  He was a good man, one whom I respected and would have liked to have known better.  It was apparent to me that there was much love in the household, and he will be sorely missed.  Love and support to Laurie, Hunter, and Allegra, as well as the rest of the family.

Dennis, you lived this life full of kindness, strength, bravery, humor, wit, intelligence, and compassion. The world has not known a finer man. I'll always miss your presence here. May your Spirit live on through my actions. Blessings on your journey....

Laurie, Hunter, and Allegra, I ache for your loss. My deepest condolences, and much love.

I bear witness.

I remember your jovial and exuberant spirit. I remember one Yule we stopped by your house and my duaghter (2 at the time) was shy and nervous. You quickly found a kids book and began reading it aloud to her; you put your whole self into it and kept her interest throughout. Thank you for your friendship and help over the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Laurie, Hunter and Allegra; much love to you all.

My heartfelt love and prayers gout to Laurie, Hunter, Allegra and the rest of the family in this time of transition.  Dennis is the kind of man no will ever forget.  I remember his hearty laugh, his genuine Spirit and his love and caring for his family and others. 

Please know you are not alone in your loss, I am right here with you.  If you need or want to talk, please call me day or night.  If you need my number, just e-mail and let me know.

Love and Blessings to the family as the healing starts and Blessings of fair winds to Dennis as he enters the Summerland where we will join him again one day.

Love and light,

Mama Vic

I first met Dennis at Sacred Fire Circle in in 2010.  I fondly remember him playing the kalimba that weekend and quickly saw his talent with rhythm and drumming.  Dennis had such a pure spirit and kind heart, a huge smile, a love of the earth, a passion for causes and change, and so much wisdom to share.  His talents, his love, his presence, his humor and hugs will surely be missed.  All my love to Laurie, Allegra, and Hunter. <3

Dennis,  I wish you a safe journey and peace eternal. 

Laurie, Hunter, Allegra, I wish you comfort and solace during this difficult time.

You will all be in my thoughts & prayers.

Love & Light

-joey

Oh Dennis...I hope that your spirit is soaring with eagles.  You were always a friendly face when met; always a pleasant conversationist when speaking of the challenges and hopes of life.  Your connection to the simple and basic truths of our great mystery was profound.  I am saddened at your leaving this life, but am very grateful to have known you.  My wishes of stength and peace to Laurie, Hunter and Allegra.

Ill miss you Brother! Thank you for what you shared with me. Your a really great Father figure to the Tribe and we dont want to have to walk without you. You were Taken to soon Brother and we love you so much!

Blessed Be Dennis xo Billy Crow

my most heartfelt condolences go out, at this time, to the family and friends of Dennis Presser.  May he be guided 'home' by his spirit guides and embrace the warm and loving arms of The Mother.  May his family go forth with the blessings of the God/dess, in peace and strength in their hearts.  Blessed be, SerenaDee

I met Dennis when I joined the Handphibians. I'd never drummed before, and not only was Dennis always encouraging, but he helped me keep perspective: this is for fun. Don't sweat it.

I'm stunned that he's gone and that most of us probably didn't get a chance to say goodbye. I'll cherish the memory of an impromptu lunch with Dennis at Nau-ti-Gal overlooking the water and a pensive walk afterward. He was a good man.

My heart is saddened by the news of your passing, Dennis. You left this earth too soon. Laurie I am sending you and your family thoughts of love and strength as you move through your grief. 

-Dennis, a candle and incense lit for your way. We met around the fire making music for Rit. I am blessed to have played music with you. I Will remember you round the fire, and when I play flute.

Blessings on your way.

This comes as a terrible shock. I've known Dennis for years. I've shared many a campfire, many a story, many a margarita! He will be remembered always, and I'll cherish those times we had together.

Blessings, brother. Travel safely.

Dennis, the news of your transition was a shock and I am overcome by sadness. My heart goes out to Laurie, Hunter and Allegra as they gather together and grieve the loss of your presence on this plane. I will not forget your huge smile, your warm and welcoming spirit, and your many talents. I know how much Laurie and the kids are hurting right now, but know that they will be surrounded by a community who loves and cherishes them.  

I wish you peace on your journey and comfort to your family and friends.

Whitewolf Singing Heart

(Jeanine Dashnaw)

I remember the day Dennis talked to me about being in the Handphibians percussion ensemble. He told me that he had little previous drumming experience, but that he wanted to learn. That is what I appreciated about Dennis the most: that he wanted to learn, that he enjoyed the work of learning, and that he saw learning as a daily, life-long process. His perspective on learning was also reflected in his willingingness to teach and to help others learn. His example of openly sharing his many life experiences with people, his abillity to recognize and to act upon the needs of others, allows all of us to appreciate the many wonderful gifts that we each have to offer the world if we are unafraid to do so.

One last memory. It is cold Monday morning in Feburary, the beginning of a month of political upheaval at the state capitol, and I walk down to with a drum to do my civic duty. Upon reaching the capitol I heard a lone cowbell actually playing a dicernable rhyhtmic pattern amongst the cacaphony of plastic bucket beating and general noisemaking. Low and behold there is Dennis, and he and I quickly made plans to bring a few drums up the next day. Shortly thereafter, we created a daily schedule for bringing MORE AND MORE DRUMS. Ultimately we were transporting about 50 drums per day and he picked them up in the morning, played them all day, made sure they were all accounted for, noted drums in need of repair, repaired the drums on spot, and then drove them back to the house everyday without pay, without question. For those who participated in the protests, played on the drums, chanted and marched to the rhythms of the percussion section, and found renewed energy to fight the radical takeover of our state political system by outside, moneyed, interests, Dennis Presser is your unsung hero.

Rest in peace brother, 

Robert

What a sudden departure. May you drum  the rythms of the spirit in the afterlife.

Blessing to all the family and friends,

Dennis, My Brother,

You walked this earth with firm and proud steps, balanced and in harmony with all around you. You were determined and knowledgeable, giving and wise. Your voice was powerful and we listened to you and heard what you said. The echoes of your presence rebound and resound and are everywhere . . . You live in our hearts. Our memory of you is a monument: unbreakable, immutable, forever. You were of the foundation of our Community; an Elder whose wisdom was sought and welcomed. The place you stood, while filled with light, will be empty, as we are, thinking of. You blessed us all with your Being. You honored me with your friendship. I miss you, Brother. You will be part of who am, always. I love you! May the Great Eagle fly with you on this Journey. Kishelemukonkink kemilkwen Onkuntewakan! The Blessings of the Creator to you!

Chip Brown

My most sinicere condolences!

Sending healing energy and prayer's for: Laurie Blue Heron, Hunter, Allegra and All the rest of He's family and friend's.

You All are in my thought's.

Blessing's!

SharowSpirit

OlgaMaria Carmen Encarnacion

avilesina54@aol.com

Twitter@avilesina54

http://www.facebook.com/carmen.sanchez.5209

pray to the gods that Dennis return safely to

The Summerlands. He will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

I will miss your kindness. I will miss your amazing humor which brought me so much joy. Thank you for being so kind. Thank you for sharing your rhythm and music with your Tribe. Thank you for that day you took me fishing even though we only caught an angry turtle. Peace on your journey, Brother. Much love to you and your family. 

Much love to Dennis on his journey. He was a wonderful, loving husband and father; and a storing pillar in the foundation of our community. He was passionate with a helluva sense of humour. Thank you for your wisdom and guidance and your contributions to our community.  You will be missed. Love and healing to Laurie, Hunter, and Allegra. 

  It has been said that a farewell is necessary before you can meet again.  Each year at PSG we part, knowing that as family, we WILL meet again.  How lucky we are to have known Dennis, and to have such good memories that makes saying goodbye so hard.  His drum still beats along with our heartbeats!  Sending love to his wife Laurie Blue Heron, their son Hunter, and their daughter Allegra.

Excellent drummer and gentle spirit. He will be missed. I enjoyed staying connected through social media. He was so insightful. Hugs to Laurie and family.

Farewell to a dear Brother.  May the Transition be a peaceful one.

All my love to Laurie, Hunter & Allegra.  My deepest condolences.

May your journeys be that you need them to be. And know that you will be missed. You touched many people in many ways, and I am thankful to have known you, even so breifly. 

Love and peace to your family.

Keep that Tribal beat! 

Rhie

I am truly sorry to hear of his passing.  May the Goddess guide his spirit to the summerlands to rest before his soul takes its next journey.  May she hold you in her arms and comfort you in this time of great saddness.  May she give you streangth to go on with out him being with you physically.  As above so below.
So Mote It Be!

Cori 

Bridey Tine 

~*~  Dennis, we are so shocked and saddened by your sudden journey.  We will miss your smile and your welcoming spirit.  You are definitely one of those folks who brings a great energy with you when you enter a room!

 Although we haven't been able to spend nearly as much time with you & Laurie as we would like, I have always looked up to you guys as wonderful role models, and have felt like I have a lot to learn from you.  You are such kind, generous, and loving people - always making us feel completely welcome.

  Laurie, Hunter, & Allegra, our hearts ache for what you must be feeling right now.  Mere words just aren't strong enough to express how much love and support we would like to send your way.  Wrapping you in love and strength...

~Much love & brightest blessings,

Deanna, Hunter, & Hannah Deal

You will be missed here, but make the Summerland brighter.  You were always so kind.

Many blessings of solace and healing for Laurie, Hunter & Allegra.

May your journey be peaceful, beautiful and full of light.

Rest gently, Dennis.

I'm grieving and knowing the drum circle will never be the same for me. Go with peace dear brother and may the Goddess guide you on your journey. You are loved and will be missed. Sending white light to all who love you.

I met Dennis through the Handphibians, I often remember him showing up to practices on Sundays with homemade Summer Sausage, and regaling us with tales of his dogs and hunting adventures. But I think I got to know him best during the protests at the Capitol, where he was a steady fixture with a drum or cowbell in hand. I remember him being very calm and jolly even with all the turmoil around us, and it kept the protests very positive. We will miss you very much Dennis! And will think about your family often.

What a shock! Dennis, we will miss you drumming around the fire, laughing... so many ways!

Laurie, Hunter, and Allegra, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love and hugs to each of you.

I knew Dennis from the IHandphibians and the Prairie Enthusiasts.  He was a great man, I will always remember his warm attitude.  He was very open hearted; when you were around Dennis, you always knew that he would help you without hesitation.  I know he loved nature so much, I look up to him and miss him.

When I think of Dennis so many wonderful things come to mind: his kindness, his energy, the great rhythms he shared with us; but the first thing that I think of is his welcoming smile that spread across his face and seemed to emcompass his whole being and reach out and make everyone around him smile too. Dennis, may you encounter all the love and caring and joy you shared with us here as you go on your journey beyond this realm. I send support and loving thoughts to Laurie, Allegra, and Hunter as they work their way through this difficult part of life's journey. 

I met Dennis last year at PSG ever so briefly as we crafted ritual together. The Spirit shines strong in him and it was a joy to have shared those moments. Much love to Laurie at this time. Hopefully by the time you read this things won't be as overwhelming. Just know that I am one of the many that feel so blessed that both of you have crossed my path. I'll be among the many sending prayers of comfort and support in this very tough time. You both are a key part of what made my first PSG special. May that beautiful Pagan love you generate come back to you three fold at this time of need.

Dennis was always very nice and out going a real pleasure to be around. He will be missed by many. Blessings to you and your loved ones you will always be remembered. May the God and Goddess guide you where ever you may need to be.

Love to you, Laurie, and your children. 

Dennis and I met at Fire Circle. He was so kind and friendly. It didn’t take long to realize he was a person of integrity and honor. He made the World a better place.  

I didn't know Dennis in this particular time-space arena, but I was drawn to leave a comment just the same.

There seems to be a reflection of the love and joy of the Goddess and God in that smile. There's a twinkle in the eye that just might play into Pan's jovial ways and be considered at times honery and maschievous, but always brought laughter and light-heartedness into about any situation.

Without personal acquaintance, I'm sure he will be missed. Sending much positive energy to his family and friends!

Blessed Be!

At PSG 2012, Dennis played drum for the Hafla, supporting all of us bellydancers.  Another community member sat next to him, strugging to get the arabic rhythm being played, and Dennis turned to help him one on one.  After the Hafla was over, Dennis stayed and jammed, supporting and guiding the new drummer along.  Such a big, patient loving heart.  When Dennis went in, in went FULL in.  His enthusiasm was contaigious, and he lifted everyone around him.

Dennis was always the friendliest of folks. No matter who, it seemed was about. I only 'knew' him through festival, but he shone there and it always made me glad to see him.

Also, it is obvious he was a good father, if Hunter is any indication...

He will be missed, and Chaos Camp will toast to him at our fire, wherever it may be.

Laurie, my heart goes out to you, Hunter, and Allegra. I'm so sorry for your loss. May you be brightened by joyful memories, soothed by the support of loving friends, and enfolded in the arms of Grace as you travel the winding road of grief. Dennis, blessings on your sacred journey. (More cowbell!) 

May the road rise with you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

May the rain fall soft upon your fields.

Until we meet again, 

May Love hold you

In the hollow of Her hand.

My brother of the the Eastern woodlands,

My white wolf keens at your passing, certain she will scent you again;

Playful otter paddles and hunts, noticing a change in the patterns of shadow and sunlight rippling through the waters.

Flying squirrel chitters and jumps, but that supporting tree is cut and he is running over snow with a pounding heart, looking for a place to climb.

Nuthatch has flown elsewhere while the redtail blinks her golden eyes and screams,

Seeing the hunting in other realms before returning to scanning the ground for prey.

I cry, something that seldom happens to me, as human.

I will miss you.

May your passing be with few fears and your next life a blessing.

Fare well.

Dennis, I will always remember your warm smile and the sound of your laughter. The joy of life was always around you. I will call your name out around the Fire. Safe journey my friend. All my love to Laurie, Hunter and Allerga.

Dennis, your terrific smile, your all-encompassing bear hugs, your big belly laughs, your kind heart, your excellent parenting, your deep abiding love for Laurie, Allegra & Hunter, your amazing PSG breakfasts, your passion for drumming, your tarp engineering and the tarp folding ritual, your toddler entertainment skills, and so much more, will be deeply, deeply missed. 

Allegra, Hunter & Laurie, my heart aches for your loss.  May you find healing and peace, and when the time is right, relief from your grief.  Much love to all of you during this heartache, and always.

I'm saddened, Dennis, to learn that you have left us so suddently and unexpectedly!  I will miss your cheerful, helpful nature, and the ideas we shared and supported will miss your energy!  Rest well in Tir n'an Og and when the time is right, Merry Meet Again!

My deepest condolences to Laurie, Hunter, and Allegra.  Know that you have the support and love of the entire community as you walk this sad road.

Blessed Be!

Beket

I am absolutely shocked and saddened, as I'm sure everyone who knew Dennis is.  I had just seen him a week ago at Carnaval, and he shared his warm smile and embrace with me one last time.  It was a perfect example of how generous and caring he was...his words were glowing, and he spoke proudly of my recent musical success 'making headlines' lately.  We didn't get a chance to say more, and I didn't get to find out how he was.  Instead, it was all about me, and his supportive vibe lifted me up once again as it always did.  

We joined the Handphibians together at around the same time in 2007.  Our first Carnaval was 2008.  I remember fondly the times we shared on the drums, how he would always take my advice and wasn't offended when I offered it, was never too proud to admit that he could improve.  That's not an easy thing to do.  His presence in the room was always felt, welcomed, and lifted up those around him.  I felt that more than most he brought that positivity to the group that was needed, just as he did last week for me, just as he did when he'd come watch me perform, and as I'm sure he did for whomever he was around.  

I will miss you, Dennis.  

-Brandon

Dennis, may your journey onward be blessed with peace. Laurie, may you, Hunter, and Allegra find comfort, and strength through your memories of your time, and love shared with Dennis.

Rest in peace brother ..... travel swiftly to the otherside of the vail

Dear Laurie, Hunter, and Allegra,

It is with great shock and sorrow that I learned of this news of Dennis' death.  I first met Dennis when he was taking GIS classes and we shared ideas and notes.  I remember him drinking a gallon of tea!  Full of life and energy, so interested in everything, he was a Good Man.  My heartfelt sympathies and love to you.

Anita

Laurie I am so sorry for your loss. This is shocking 

news. 

I didn't know Dennis for very long or very well, but my heart hurts with his passing. He and I looked at life from different worldviews, but we both were part of the same tribe Little Big Man joined -- the Human Beings. He was unfailingly witty, kind, intelligent, and it's with all sincerity I can say my life was better having known him. Go with God, my friend!

Dennis was a great man with a contagious smile. His life will be celebrated, and his light will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.  Safe journeys to you! <3

Love and Light to Laurie and the rest of the Presser family. 

Dennis, It was your cheery smile and drumming every morning that pulled us to PSG Town Meeting. It is to soon but you have touched many... Blessing to your family in this time of rememberance. We know you will find us when you return.  Ron

My thoughts and prayers go out to Laurie, Hunter and Allegra at this time of transition.  I was so saddened to hear of Dennis' passing.  I remember him (and the entire Larson/Presser family) as being a part of my first set of friends after I arrived in Madison back in 2003.  Dennis always made me feel welcome, no matter what, with his warm, gentle (yet strong) presence and inviting smile.  I remember sharing wonderful PSG breakfasts and laughing along with his witty humor.  I remember his passion for hunting (and honoring the sacred kill), drumming, mead-making with Laurie, Gail Ambrosius chocolate-eating (thank you for introducing me to them!)...and his on-going passion for family, animals, the environment and Community.  My heart is so sad right now, yet I feel honorerd to have known this Good Man.  Thank you for your presence in my life, Dennis.  Blessed Be.

Dennis was always ready with a smile & a joke. In that way he always inspired me.

An amazing man was taken to the embrace of our Goddess suddenly and much too soon. Dennis, your smile was infectious, your wit quick, your hear big and wide open. You always had a kind word when it was needed or a joke and a hearty laugh when it was called for. May your drum beat sure and resolute on the otherside. I'll be sure to listen for your "rhythm" in the chiming sing song of windswept leaves... in the wisp of grasses as they are passed.... with the song of the birds as they sing in the morning sun... In the currents of the rivers and the rain drops on the forest canopy... in the quiet moments where all I hear is the beat of my heart, I will listen for your drum. Safe journey, my friend. Rest well, until we next meet.

Merry Meet.
Merry Part.
And Merry Meet again....

I will remember Dennis as a committed and enthused conservationist and fire-bug.  He brought a great deal of energy and leadership to the Wisconsin Prescribed Fire Council, and provided a consistent voice advocating for the use of prescribed fire in the state successfully bringing professionals, volunteers and  private land owners together.  He will be missed. 

This is a difficult time, and I realize that there is little I can say to easy this painful moment. I have joyfilled memories of Dennis that will live on within me: his smile, his humor and full bellyshake laugh, his joy in sharing mead, his passion expressed in his fight against Walker, but especially the love and pride in his children and wife that beamed when he spoke of them.

Dennis gave much to this world, and he will be missed greatly. He will live on in the memories all those who were blessed to experience his presence and the love he shared with them, as the love given and shared with him will accompany him on his new journey.

Love to his family

Shug

I knew Dennis as a fire-tender.  He was a passionate advocate of returning fire to natural landscapes.  He was also a great person, and I will miss him.

The numerous hours of Sacred Rhythm we shared over the many years of festival will never be forgotten brother!   

I offer my sincere condolences to the Dennis Presser Family. 

Although I did not know Dennis well, every time I saw him he had a ready smile and was always ready to lend a helping hand.  He was very genuine.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the Family of Dennis Presser.

Sincerely

John Condron

WSP District 1 Representative

Local 03732

I remember Dennis as being the skinny little runt of the class. Plus his sarcastic hummor.

Life is precious, we need to cherish everyday that God gives us here on this earth.

Was deeply saddened to hear of Dennis' passing this morning.  My condolences to his family and friends during this  difficult time. He will be missed and remembered. Drum on........

Dennis loved playing Brazilian percussion and it showed. I joined the Handphibians in 2010, and he was one of the members I remember the most as a performer.  He always smiled as he played, both on and off stage, which kept me in the spirit and helped me relax.  His kindness, and especially that smile, will be missed. 

Shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden loss of someone so committed to protecting the natural world. His contributions will be deeply missed. Peace and love to the Presser family.

I remember seeing him at some of the events. He was always a nice guy. He will be missed.

The Summerland shines a bit brighter as His star shines there.

We used to talk about fly fishing. Or maps. Or prairie fires. Or bacon.

"All there is to thinking is seeing something noticeable which makes you see something you weren't noticing which makes you see something that isn't even visible."

Norman Maclean, "A River Runs Through It"

Dennis, you were a person whose presence was felt, and now your absense is felt. I see flashes of your smile, hear your deep laugh, notice you helping others and showing friendship. You were our Mami Wata bouncer and stage manager, a fellow fun-loving Handphibian, and a kind friend. I remember being delighted when you showed me the hops in your garden and told me to crush it in my hand and smell it. I am deeply saddened for your loss Laurie, Hunter, and Allegra.

It is the belief of my Folk that each of us remain forever connected to our Ancestors and our Descendants in an unbroken line stretching through the ages.  When members of our families depart this earth, we know that they will eventually return, reborn into our family’s line.  While they wait until they feel the time is right for their return, their spirits can choose where they will reside.  Some pass the waiting time in the halls of our Ancestors, joyfully reunited with loved ones who have gone before.  Others prefer to remain close to loved ones here on Midgard, so they become one of our Disir (female ancestors) or Alfar (male ancestors) —family spirits who gather close in times of need and joy.

The Alfar surround us with the sturdiness of the Oak Grove.  They are tireless in their devotion and warriors in their watchfulness.  Their powerful spirits guard our homes, securing for us a hearth beside which we can know comfort, protection and luck; their stern voices remind us to feel the animals, heed the harvest; lock the gates, and see to the hard tasks first, lest we come to doubt our own strength and courage.  They gift us with unexpected whimsy, bending close to the children to tickle them with their unseen beards, and their rich, deep laughter resonates with ours when we gather for the opening of holiday gifts.  They hold us close in the darkest of heart-rending nights, and keep an attentive eye to the family’s Honor.

It is not my intent to disrespect your personal beliefs.  But it is my belief that your Alfar gather close around you now, and have welcomed Dennis—his strength, and character, his broad shoulders and strong sword arm—into their midst.  Together, they will surround your family as your bulwark in these stressful times.  May you and Hunter and Allegra all feel the glow of his love surrounding you each hour, and may you all draw strength and solace from his powerful, inexhaustible presence.

to the family and friends of Dennis i wish that i could take all tour tears and show you the magic in each one of them. small liquid memorieseach with a good feeling and image or event such as a picnic, a dinner a birth. i guies what i am saying is rejoice in his spirit even though you morn the loss of the shell. my prayers casts of healing and friendship peace ofheart and finely love .

                                                                blessed be from  

                                                              reverend terry rucks

                                                                  (ghost raven)   

It is entierly possible that I would not be the person I am today if it wasn't for Dennis Presser.  And by that I mean, I would not have this job that makes me excited to come to work every morning, a cause I love, a deep connection with the earth, almost all of my friends and a broad community I adore.  All because of three sentences Dennis said to me one crisp fall day.

It was Welcome Fall, and I'd driven down to Circle Sanctuary for the very first time.  I was nervous - I'd had rather dissappointing experiences with other Pagans in the past.  The land was beautiful, but what if the people weren't nice, or didn't want some newcomer barging in?  I wandered around, a bit lost, until I spotted Dennis.  I knew that guy!  I was working for Midwest Environmental Advocates and Dennis was a supporter, he came to our open house, and I'd chatted with him!  I knew he was a sane, professional, interesting person, so I figured that it was a good sign that he was here.  On the other hand, what if he was a newby like me?  I needed more information.

I nervously walked over to where he was helping with the apple cider pressing and introduced myself.  Of course he remembered me.  Then I casually asked, "so, have you been coming to Circle events long?" He smiled and pointed over at a tall adolescent chatting with someone else by the fire.  

"You see that boy there?  That's my son.  We had his naming celebration here just about sixteen years ago."

At that moment I relaxed.  I knew Dennis was a good person, and if he had chosen to raise his children in this community it must be all right.  I went on to throw myself into the festivities, get to know people and generally had a fantastic time.  It's four and a half years since then, and I now work for Circle Sanctuary, and serving it's community gives me such joy.

Dennis remembered that day.  He stopped me, from time to time, at Fire Circles and PSG to see how I was getting along.  He said he was glad that he had a hand in it.  I'm so glad that, at that first Fire Circle I told him how much it meant to me that he was there at the beginning to assure me that this place was OK.

Dennis, thank you.  I know you've touched so many people deeply.  And there is a lot more I could say about your environmentalism, your no-nonsense attitude and your wonderful, amazing family... but others have said it better.  But thank you for being the turning point where my life changed so very much for the better.  I will always remember that, and I, like so many others, will always remember you.

Blessings.

Oh, Dennis.  Peace and love to you on your journey to the Next.  I will miss you so much!  Even though we met in college, it seems you have always been in my life.  I love you and Laurie and Hunter and Allegra so much - I just loved your visits from WI when you stayed with me.  I loved having you here this past year with Soko for the hunting season, and when you came for your brother's funeral. 

When you were here for your brother's funeral, we talked about life and death.  We talked about how short and unpredictable life can be.  We talked about the pitfalls of aging and the health issues that come with it.  And even though I can acknowledge my mortality, I don't think either one of us really believed we would not make it to the next hunting season.  I cannot believe you will not be back here next fall to hunt birds with Soko.  It breaks my heart.  I will miss our breakfasts, your coffee, and your mocking me for sleeping late!

I admire you so much for your work ethic on behalf of the environment.  I admire the wealth of knowledge you carried around in your head and the capacity you had to absorb books.  I admire the love and devotion you felt towards your family.  I admire your willingness to stand up for what you believe in.  This is not to say you did not drive me nuts and actually ENJOYED driving me nuts (and I probably did the same for you)!  I truly thought we would have many, many more years to drive each other nuts.  

Thanks for your steadfast friendship over the years.  Thanks for your laugh, which I will miss so much - hearty, head-thrown-back, belly laughs.  Thanks for the love.

Carolyn and I are shocked and saddened by the news of Dennis' death.  Our sympathy to Laurie, Hunter and Allegra.  We know this will be a difficult time for Laurie and the children. We are sorry for the loss of your husband and father.  Ron & Carolyn

Dennis was one of the most laid-back and down-to-earth people I had the pleasure of working with. I'm shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. The world just lost another wonderful person. My deepest condolences to his family. He was a truly wonderful person, and we were all blessed to know him.

Dennis will be sorely missed. He was a great resource for prescribed burns and his work with Trout Unlimited. We are very sad at his passing. Hugs to his family. Our hearts will be with you.

It's hard to put into words how much Dennis brought to all our lives. On a personal level, he was a close friend. On a family level, he was our Papa Bear. On a community level, he was a leader and renaissance man. He transformed himself through time, and our friendship, family bonds, and community all prospered by his transformation. He willingly shared his talent with all of us, especially the PSG community. It's hard to fathom that I will no longer hear his laugh, play off his wit, or build our space together. Dennis, my brother of Xango, the necklace that you made, wore, and gifed to me is still one of my most prized possessions. It will always remind me of you. I will miss you, and look forward to seeing you again soon. Axe!

Cigars, sweets, and rum at the Crossroads. I can see your open and friendly smile as you companionably throw an arm around Papa Legba's shoulder, he smiles and slaps your back,  and the stories begin. My shock, and the grief in my heart for Laurie , Allegra and Hunter--well, they are a tribute to you and your vibrant, caring and charming soul. You were the kid on the playground who played for the love of the game and fun of friends. You will be missed, and so we are each left to bring your joyful playfullness to life and to manifest your zeal for nature and fairness. May you dance and dream in the arms of these Mother.