Dennis Duane Schmitz, 74, originally of Harvey, ND passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at a hospital in Mesa, AZ. He resided at Strawberry Lake in Ruso, ND and at Mountainbrook Village in Gold Canyon, AZ.

Dennis (Denny) was born on October 19, 1946 to Eugene and Isabella (Weigel) Schmitz in Harvey, ND. He grew up at their farmstead — making trouble and working hard — with one brother and four sisters. He graduated from Harvey High School in 1964, and then attended North Dakota State University and Dakota Business College before he enlisted in the army in 1967. He served in Germany during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged after his brother, Bobby, was killed in the Vietnam War in 1969.

Dennis moved to Minnesota to study computer programming at Brown Institute, and then settled in Minneapolis. He worked as a programmer and a systems analyst for Green Tree Computer Services from 1970 to 1981. He married his former wife Patrice (Molin) Solyntjes in 1981, and they welcomed their daughter Sarah in 1982. After 38 years as a senior systems analyst, technical consultant and business intelligence architect with US Bank (formerly First Bank) — where he was consistently recognized for his achievements and dedication — he retired in 2019.

Denny was known for his generosity, care and sense of humor. He was a skilled storyteller — accented by his dry wit. If the 'punchline' got a laugh, you can be sure he'd repeat it a second or third time. He traveled far and wide — most recently Ireland, Mexico, Sweden, San Diego and a family RV trip through Yellowstone. With his green thumb, he created beautiful gardens and landscaping. He liked watching birds and wildlife, as well as monitoring his thermometers and apps for any changes in the weather. He enjoyed golfing, pontoon rides and cheering for the Vikings. And he liked his 'things' — little mementos, favorite photos, decor, antiques and the latest technology. Above all else, he loved spending time with his daughter, son-in-law, grandsons, sisters, family, friends and neighbors. He was a fun, loving and proud father and grandfather.

Denny is survived by his daughter: Sarah (Matt) Karnas of Minneapolis, MN; his grandchildren: Leo and Eddy; and his sisters: Linda (Bob) Bartsch of Minot, ND; ReNae (Roger) Bradford of Maple Grove, MN; Deb (Rich) Koble of Harvey, ND; Donna (Rick) Selk of Minot, ND. He is also survived by aunts and an uncle, many cousins, nieces and nephews, and close friends who adored and loved him dearly.

Denny is preceded in death by his parents: Eugene and Isabella Schmitz; and his brother: Robert Schmitz. He will be laid to rest beside them at the Saint Cecilia Catholic Cemetery in Harvey, ND.

In honoring Denny's request, Celebration of Life gatherings will be planned. These will be announced at a later date.