Dennis ‘Denny’ Onken

Dennis “Denny” Onken, 69, of Charles City, passed away Thursday, June 1, 2023.

A private celebration of Denny’s life will be held.

Dennis Ray Onken, the son of John and Vera (Medlin) Onken, was born on Sept. 1, 1953, in Charles City. In 1970, Denny was married to Sharon L. Welsh and to this union Dawn and Dennis, Jr. were born. He was then married to Thelma M. Bouillon in 1980, and to this union Danial was born, and the couple adopted Sean and raised Jamie. Denny then married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, RaMona Damro, on Feb. 14, 2002.

Starting at the age of 18, Denny was a semi-truck driver. Every company he worked for he was dedicated, loyal, and very hard working. His most recent company he drove for was Monson & Sons in Britt. Denny had a passion for the open road and if he wasn’t driving miles in his truck, he was doing so on his motorcycle. He especially enjoyed his annual sightseeing adventures with his son-in-law Travis.

Denny’s other passion in life was music. He taught himself how to play acoustic guitar and formed his band, Flood Creek, in 1971. They played at several bars, VFWs, weddings, and at Rock Creek Campground. Denny enjoyed working on cars, watching movies of all genres, and in his younger years, playing horseshoes and volleyball. He also loved spending time outside and chatting with his wonderful neighbors. Despite his “rough and tough” appearance, Denny had a heart of gold. He was the most humble and caring person and would do anything for anybody.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife of 21 years, RaMona; children: Dawn Gagon, Dennis Onken, Jr., Danial Onken, and Sean (Rosanna) Onken; stepchildren: Angela (Michael) Blount and Heather (Travis) Hobert; ex-stepdaughter, Jamie (John) Drilling-Roney; grandchildren: Wyatt (Ashley) Gagon, Ty Gagon, Kinzy (Kevin) Onken, Ireland Onken, Nathanial Onken, Kaitlin Onken, Adriana Onken, Kari Onken, Courtney Onken, Macarius Blount, Breylon Blount, Quinten Blount, Morgan Hobert, and Kendall Hobert; and brother, Dave Onken.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Logan Onken; sister-in-law, Sara Onken; and beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and trucking buddy, Chloe.

Hauser Weishaar Funeral Home, (641) 228-2323, 1205 South Main Street, Charles City, Iowa 50616 is in charge of local arrangements. Online condolences may be left on the Tribute Wall for the family at www.hauserfh.com.