Dennis James Bottem

Celebrating the Life of Dennis James Bottem

It is a bit ironic that Dennis the Menace and Dennis Bottem both began life in 1951. But unlike the mischievous comic strip character, our Dennis was never a menace. He was an energetic, adventurous boy who loved exploring, playing ball and building forts with his buddies. Along the way, he became the kind of brother, husband, father and friend anyone would be lucky to have—loyal, dependable, and always there when it mattered.

Dennis James Bottem was born on October 25, 1951, in Eugene, Oregon, to Jimmy and Marge Bottem. He graduated from Churchill High School in 1969. With heavy hearts, we announce that on June 17, 2026, surrounded by his family and friends as he looked out over his ranch, Dennis let the Lord take him home to spread his wings and watch over his family and friends from the sky above.

Dennis’s life was defined by being an early riser—never late—hard work, bold determination, and an enduring love for his family. He fought cancer courageously until the very end, facing every challenge with the same grit and strength that guided him throughout his life. He lived life to the fullest, with no regrets—rooted in knowing who he was, where he came from, and staying true to the values that shaped him.

A successful businessman, Dennis, together with his family, built more than a thriving business—he built a legacy of integrity, perseverance, and respect. Through countless hours of dedication and hard work, he earned the trust of the business community and the admiration of those who had the privilege of working alongside him. His employees became family, and he always made sure his family was taken care of first.

Beyond his business accomplishments, Dennis’s heart belonged to the ranch. A true cowboy at heart, he found peace beneath wide-open skies, working the land, caring for his cattle, and living the values of honesty, resilience, and self-reliance. The ranch was not simply where he worked; it was where he felt most at home—grounded, steady, and connected to the life he built with his own hands.

Above all else, Dennis was devoted to his family. As a loving husband, he shared a lifetime of partnership, laughter, and unwavering commitment with the love of his life, Judy (Murry) Bottem. On August 28, they would have celebrated 55 years of marriage.

As a father, Dennis led by example. He taught his children the values of hard work, responsibility, keeping your word, forgiving one another, loving each other, and turning failure into success. He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Lydon, and her husband, Mark Lydon, and their children, Marcus, Carson, and Sophia; and his son, Ross Bottem, and his wife, Laura Bottem, and their children, Julia and Jacob.

His grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, and he treasured every opportunity to spend time with them—especially riding horses across the ranch, checking the cows together, watching them play sports, sharing stories, offering quiet wisdom, and creating memories they will carry with them forever. In them, he saw the continuation of everything he stood for—family, strength, and staying true to who you are.

Dennis was also a beloved brother to Sallie Meng and her late husband, Larry Meng, and a cherished uncle to Jamie Hill, who preceded him in death and Lesa Eusted and her husband, David Eusted—affectionately known as Dennis's chauffeur “George.” He was also preceded in death by his cousin, Pam Griffith, and is survived by her son, Tim O'Leary. Dennis's guidance, humor, and steadfast presence enriched the lives of all who knew and loved him.

Until the very end, his brother-in-law—and brother at heart—Jim Murry, along with his partner, Kari Kadunc, were there fighting alongside Dennis and living the best life with him. Dennis was also loved by his brother-in-law, Mike Murry, and his wife, Becky Murry.

He will be remembered for his quiet strength, generous spirit, dry sense of humor, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever it was needed. Whether offering advice, sharing a laugh, or simply showing up when someone needed him, Dennis left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He lived honestly, stood firm in his values, and never pretended to be anything other than who he was—a man of character, heart, and unwavering authenticity.

Though our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort in knowing his legacy lives on—in the family he loved so deeply, the values he instilled, the business he built, and the family ranch he cared for with such pride. Dennis showed up every day, led by example, and left a lasting impact on his children and grandchildren that will carry on for generations. His example reminds us that a life measured by character, faithfulness, and love leaves footprints that time can never erase.

As John Wayne once said, “Courage is being scared to death… and saddling up anyway.” Dennis lived those words every day—with strength, grit, and an unshakable spirit.

Dennis will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

Ride on, Cowboy.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to PeaceHealth Hospice, especially Tori Kettering and Desiree Ramirez, for the exceptional care, compassion, and genuine kindness they showed Dennis and our entire family. Their support brought comfort and peace during an incredibly difficult time, and we will be forever grateful.

Dennis celebrated life, and to honor his wishes, the family will hold a Celebration of Life on September 19, 2026, at Bottem’s Up Ranch. For details regarding Dennis’s party please contact Laura 503-997-2878 or email [email protected] or visit https://bottemsupparty.squarespace.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to A World Free of Suicide, a non-profit organization created by Dennis’s grandson, Carson Lydon. Dennis was deeply devoted to the success of this nonprofit and the meaningful work it represents: https://www.aworldfreeofsuicide.org/donate.