Dennis Strein

Dennis (Denny) Alan Strein, born April 13, 1954 to Albert Strein and Vera Laughridge, passed away on June 22, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Billie Nichols-Strein, his siblings Jeanine (Joe) Stanford and Bill (Lana) Strein, and his beloved mother-in-law Diane “B4” Nichols. Denny was a beloved father to Troy (Correna) Strein, Adam (Erin) Strein, Alyssa (J.B.) Stevens, Cody (Amber) Nichols, Shawn (Jessica) Wrinkle, and Logan Wrinkle. He was a cherished grandfather to Lucas “Scooter” Strein, Haley Strein, Kelly “Jellybean” Strein, Henry “Turbo” Strein, Nolan “Knuckles” Strein, Evelyn Strein, Lily “Heifer” Stevens, Libby “Heifer” Stevens, Conner Nichols, Leighton “Punkin” Nichols, Kael Wrinkle, Lane “Monkey” Wrinkle, Lawson “Monkey” Wrinkle, Hannah Strein, Kenzie Strein, and Zac Strein. As well as great grandfather to Kira Strein and Kaia Strein.

Denny had a profound love for the outdoors, spending countless hours camping and embarking on adventures. His skills as a builder were unmatched, and he often lent a helping hand to his family with any household tasks they needed. His favorite place was his cabin, where he found joy in being with nature.

Outside of his family and nature, Denny had a deep appreciation for music, particularly Van Morrison and ZZ Top. As an entrepreneur, he owned and operated several successful businesses throughout his life. He loved to travel and had a magnetic personality that made people want to be around him, sharing laughter and joy.

Denny often spoke of the things that mattered most to him. He loved his wife Billie, whom he thought was the most beautiful woman a man could ask for. He cherished his father, who taught him many valuable lessons and always made him smile. He was blessed with an older sister, Jeanine, who brought him endless laughter, and an older brother, Bill, whom he greatly admired.

His most notable achievement, he believed, was raising his talented children. He was immensely proud of Troy, a railroad engineer; Adam, an engineering manager; and Alyssa, his favorite teacher. Denny was always their biggest cheerleader. He also deeply appreciated his step-sons, Cody, Shawn, and Logan, who were always there for him.

Denny’s heart lit up the most when he was with his grandchildren, each of whom he loved with his whole heart. He was a jokester who brought joy and laughter wherever he went, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Dennis Alan Strein will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His spirit of adventure, love for his family, and infectious laughter will live on in the hearts of those he touched. On Denny’s behalf, please remember to be slow to judge, fast to forgive, eager to smile, and unashamed to cry.

Denny’s memorial service will be held at Bluff First at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 2, at Bluff First with a celebration of life immediately following. Flowers can be sent to Bluff First at 2518 Barron Road, in Poplar Bluff, on Tuesday.