Denny Poole: The Host with the Most

Having lost both of our parents to dementia, The Alzheimer's Association has been a support to Andrea and Melanie throughout this difficult journey. Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity. Dennis “Denny” Howard Poole, ever the contrarian, checked out peacefully surrounded by family and stubbornly a few days shy of his 86th birthday, just to keep everyone on their toes. Born November 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, to Leonard and Irene Poole, Denny arrived. His Michigan roots would anchor him throughout his life.Not long after arrival, he filed a formal complaint about the lack of brothers on the roster. The complaint was denied, so he did what any reasonable man would do: promoted his cousin Tom to "brother". Tom accepted the field commission without hesitation, and the two spent nearly eight decades proving that blood is optional when you've got matching levels of mischief. Following high school, Denny proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he earned a college scholarship. His service shaped the discipline and integrity that would guide him throughout his life. With few limitations on his choice of schools, he chose the University of Missouri, Columbia (Mizzou) that had a women's college down the street where his future wife, Jean, was attending. Denny became smitten with Jean the moment he heard her laugh, and changed his focus from school to Jean. Soon married, Denny and Jean traveled around through multiple enlistments in the Marine Corps, finally settling in his hometown of Detroit. After his service in the United States Marine Corps, Denny joined IBM as a Systems Engineer. In an era when computers filled entire rooms and were found only in large corporations, he maintained and repaired those early machines with skill and dedication,. forging lifelong friendships along the way. After several years in snowy Detroit, Denny and Jean relocated their family to sunny Southern California, where they would spend the rest of their lives . Denny was a genuine soul—kind-hearted, with a quick wit, and steady in a way that made people feel at home. His laughter, always accompanied by a twinkle in his eye, was many times due to a well-timed dad joke. He had a gift for offering warmth and firmness at once, loving people with honesty and a strength that anchored those around him. He and Jean traveled together, exploring, eating and drinking their way around the globe. When at home, he was often found tending bar as “the Host with the Most”, crafting drinks and stories in equal measure. Denny was a natural storyteller—the kind whose memories, jokes, and tales were appreciated by friends and family whether it was at one of his and Jean's fabulous parties or over a quiet family meal. A remembrance of Denny would not be complete without mentioning his lifelong passion for music. Throughout his life, music was a constant source of joy, and he deeply loved the songs of many great artists. Family members fondly remember him enjoying classics by Don McLean and Michael Nesmith. Yet none held a place in his heart quite like the music of his two all-time favorites: Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash. Even in his final years, Denny could still recall and recite their lyrics with remarkable clarity and his appreciation remained undiminished until the very end. Denny was completely devoted to Jean. After almost 60 years of marriage, Jean passed away, leaving a gaping hole in Denny's heart. But we all knew she was just going ahead to get the good table in heaven picked out first. Denny is survived by Tom Morasky (officially a cousin, functionally a brother); his children Christopher Poole and wife Ingrid (Lorena), Melanie Doody and husband Kevin, and Andrea Poole and partner Kyle; three cherished granddaughters Annie, Jean, and Lindsay Ray; as well as nephews and their families. Those who knew Denny will remember his strength, his deep love for his family, his welcoming smile, and the way he could make anyone feel like they belonged at his table. A funeral service and celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association