Dennis George Hare

Dennis George Hare, a man of wit, humor, and boundless energy, passed away on April 8, 2023, at the age of 80. Born July 21, 1942, in Robinson, IL, he grew up in the Palestine, IL, area, where he was active in the Boy Scouts to such a degree that he eventually earned the coveted title of Eagle Scout. A graduate of Palestine High School in 1960, Dennis would spend the rest of his days championing a life of servitude and labor to accommodate his beloved community. In his youth, he worked for his family's store, Hare's Grocery, as a delivery boy, before lending his talents to a plethora of other jobs, from Miller's Garage to the Illinois Central Railroad to Bachelor's Cleaners.

However, it was at the WTAY radio station that Dennis would leave his indelible mark, serving as a popular disc jockey for 20 years, finally ascending to the position of station manager. During Christmas mornings, Dennis would offer mirth and merriment, tracking Santa for the children and distributing free batteries for their newfound toys. Through the radio station, Dennis was able to provide play-by-play commentary for innumerable games and tournaments throughout the state, feeding his undying passion for sports.

Never one to confine himself to a single pursuit, Dennis shifted his attention to the world of automobiles. As a service manager for Sycamore Chevrolet, Wiseman Buick, and Wilson Motors dealerships, he was able to marry his love of cars and his mechanically-inclined mind. Unyielding to the concept of a conventional retirement, Dennis continued to work at Fisher Auto Parts, making deliveries until he was 78 years young.

Dennis's civic involvement was extensive, as he served on various boards, including the Lincoln Trail Foundation, Crawford County Development Association, and Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation. Furthermore, he was integral in the Pioneer City Rodeo Committee and was a volunteer fireman for both Palestine and Robinson Fire Departments. His contributions even helped establish the Crawford County Rescue Squad. His devotion to his community didn't end there, as Dennis was a longtime Shriner and a member of the Flat Rock Masonic Lodge #348. It was evident that Dennis's zest for life saw him constantly on the move, constantly experiencing, and constantly accomplishing.

Even at home, he refused to let dust settle. Much of his free time found this renowned "gizmologist" tinkering in his garage, repurposing discarded junk to fix items with unparalleled creativity. He would also work on his beloved old Oldsmobille alongside his buddies Chester Greene and Jim Snyder, who could each speak to the man's joking, ornery nature. Acknowledged far and wide for his humor, Dennis's witty repartee often took the form of self-deprecating jibes. For example, when responding to the question of his own well-being, he'd often reply, "I'm obnoxious and contrary!" Possessing a gift for humor and never at a loss for words, Dennis never met a stranger in his life, making fast friends with those he chanced upon. Those of us fortunate enough to have known him will forever agree with another one of his (many) sayings, "Glad you got to see me!" After all, in Dennis Hare, we got to see what it looks like for a man to pour the entirety of himself into his community. We are better and we are stronger because this dear man lived, and lived well.

He is survived by a loving family, including his wife Leah, who he married on February 4, 1961. His children Bryan Hare, Penni, and her husband Monty Murray, whom Dennis affectionately referred to as his "#1 son-in-law," will forever treasure memories of their loving father. Dennis is also survived by his sisters & brother-in-law, Phyllis & Leo Adams, and Susan Stout; his sister-in-law & her husband, Teresa & Henry Nash; his nieces, Alaina Heinz (and her family) and Rachel Stout; and two special members of his extended family, Tyler Mefford and Tahnee Dunlap.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Marion & Vina (McKay) Hare, and his brother, Steven Hare.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 14th, at the Palestine Cemetery, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. Memorials may be made to "DaVita Dialysis", and envelopes will be available at the cemetery. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine is in charge of arrangements.