Dennis Eugene Heryford

Dennis Eugene Heryford, age 72, passed away on April 18, 2026 at 11:11 a.m., surrounded by his family at home after battling cancer on and off for several years.

Dennis was born on December 27, 1953 in Oroville, California to Glenn and Betty Heryford, the youngest of five boys, in a military family. Though born in California, he was a lifelong Washingtonian and proudly called it home.

He attended Timberline High School, where he was a 4.0 student and class president, graduating in 1972. Shortly after, Dennis served his country in the United States Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne. Following his service, he returned to Washington and began a long and dedicated career in law enforcement.

Dennis worked for several agencies over the years, including Westport Police Department, Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office, the Washington State Gambling Commission, and ultimately the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, where he served as an investigator. He spent decades in the hills and mountains of Washington protecting the natural resources and beauty of the state he loved. He often invited friends and family on ride-alongs, eager to share the landscapes that meant so much to him.

He loved all corners of Washington, from the arid landscapes of Eastern Washington to the pine forests of the Colville region, the Columbia River and its majesty, Dry Falls, the madrona-lined shores of Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains, including their black bear population, which some will understand with a smile. Dennis had a knack for following clues and solving puzzles, which is why he was exceptional at his job and loved his work. In truth, he never called it work, because he genuinely loved what he did.

As dedicated as he was to his career, Dennis was even more devoted to his family. He never missed a sporting event for his children, and later his grandchildren, always showing up with pride and support. He carried a mischievous smile, paired with a deep sense of kindness and respect. He held doors, returned shopping carts, and always said yes sir and yes ma’am. He was raised right and carried a dreamer’s spirit. He was always willing to help a friend or a complete stranger, rolling up his sleeves without hesitation whenever someone needed a hand.

Though his brother Dan (Ug) may have his own stories to tell, he remains sworn to secrecy. Dennis was the youngest of Rick, Bill, Bob, and Dan, and always the baby of the family.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Betty Heryford, and his brothers Bob, Rick, and Bill.

He is survived by his wife Jackie, with whom he shared 49 years of marriage, his daughter Kerri and her husband DJ, his son Justin and his wife Andrea, and his son Andrew and his wife Caytlin. He is also survived by his grandchildren Bailey, Hannah, Isaiah, Reese, Brett, Blake, Raf, Brinley, and Brixton, and his great-grandchildren Duke, Briggs Eugene, and Crew. He is also survived by his brother Dan, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Dad, Papa, Uncle D, Dennis, we know you are out there chasing Bigfoot among the old growth trees and catching up with those who went before you. Born into faith and guided by his belief in the Lord, we take comfort in knowing we will see you again. We love you, and you will be missed forever.