Dennis Joseph Hensen, loving husband, father and friend passed away on August 17, 2026, with family and friends by his side.

Dennis was born in Augusta, Georgia to James P. Hensen and Frances V. Hensen. He was the third of seven children. Dennis graduated from Pueblo Catholic High School in 1966and attended Colorado State University earning a Bachelor’s Degree in education in 1971.

Dennis began his law enforcement career with the Colorado State University Campus Police Department. After the University Police Department, Dennis worked for the Estes Park Police Department, Moffat County Sheriff’s Office and with the Steamboat Springs Police Department, where he served for 24 years from 1975 to 1999 as a Patrol Officer, Detective and Sergeant. He was passionate about serving and assisting the public.

Dennis’ second career began with the Steamboat Springs High School in 2000 where he was Campus Supervisor, a substitute teacher, and an assistant football coach. He cared deeply for all the students and staff he worked with over years.

Dennis met his wife Chris Nolan in 1975 and they were married in 1977. Dennis was an avid hunter, a history buff, enjoyed traveling, he was a voracious reader and loved Steamboat Sailor and CSU Rams football.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Chris, their two sons, Dennis (Krystal) and Kevin;siblings Marie Hurlbutt (Dana), Paul (Cathy), George (Laurie), Virginia Lieberman (Steve), Bill (Vicki) and Frank (Ruth), many nieces and nephews, two granddaughters, Ty’nia and Tyra and two great grandchildren, Happy and Kayden. Dennis’ parents, James P. Hensen and Frances V. Hensen predeceased him.

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on September 25, 2026, at the Steamboat Springs Cemetery, followed by a mass at Holy Name Catholic Church with Special Intentions for Dennis at noon.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on September 26, 2026, at Olympian Hall for family and friends.