Dennis Bruce Dahlman
Born on February 5, 1947, in Sioux City, IowaPassed March 18, 2025 in Melbourne, Florida
Dennis Bruce Dahlman, 78, passed away surrounded by family on March 18, 2025, after a long illness. He was born on February 5, 1947, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Everett Clifford Dahlman and Wilodyne Rose Anderson.
Dennis was raised in Nebraska and graduated from Ponca High School in 1965. In 1966, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he trained in aviation electronics. A highly dedicated and skilled Marine, Dennis was recognized as the “Honor Man” of his class at Camp Pendleton, an achievement that earned him the coveted dress blue USMC uniform, which he held in great esteem throughout his life. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam, where his bravery and unwavering commitment shone through. Dennis was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant.
After his military service, Dennis worked his way through college at Iowa Beef Processors, managing the company’s computer network, which provided him with invaluable hands-on experience in the growing field of technology. He graduated from Briar Cliff College, Sioux City, Iowa, in 1976 with a degree in mathematics and computer science.
Following graduation, Dennis worked for Wyle Laboratories, which had a contract with NASA. He contributed his expertise in computer science and technology to support NASA’s important missions.
Dennis continued his career as an engineer for the Harris Corporation in Melbourne, Florida, and through hard work and determination, rose to become head of U.S. sales for their computer and control systems division. During his time at Harris, he met the love of his life, Shirley King, and they were married on September 27th, 1987. Following his retirement from Harris, Dennis joined Shirley at her court reporting business, King Reporting, serving as Vice President in charge of IT and sales until they sold the business.
Dennis was deeply committed to supporting fellow veterans and was a valued member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 32, where he served on the Executive Committee.
Dennis was also known for his generosity, both of his time and financial resources. He was a steadfast supporter of numerous charitable organizations, contributing to causes that helped veterans, children, and those in need. Whether it was volunteering his time or helping to fund community outreach programs, Dennis believed in the power of giving back and made it a cornerstone of his life. His philanthropy touched the lives of many, and his legacy of kindness and generosity will live on in the hearts of those who benefited from his selfless acts.
Beyond his professional accomplishments and service, Dennis found great joy in his passions. An avid golfer, he was a proud member of the Suntree Country Club for nearly 40 years, where he also served on the board. He enjoyed volunteering as a marshal at several PGA tournaments and having the opportunity to meet some of the professional golf icons. Dennis and Shirley had numerous treasured adventures traveling around the world. He loved building and flying model airplanes, always embracing the challenge of perfecting his designs. Dennis was captivated by the sight of numerous rocket launches from Cape Canaveral, often viewing them up close near the launch pad or from the comfort of his own backyard.
More than anything, Dennis’s life was a love story—love of God, country, his wife, family, and friends. He never met a stranger, always welcoming others with warmth and kindness. A lifelong learner and deep thinker, Dennis enjoyed engaging in long conversations on a wide range of topics, from science and politics to religion, travel, and anything else that sparked curiosity.
Dennis is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley King; his sister Sandra (Donald) Curry of Le Mars, Iowa; his sister Bonnie Schwarzlander of Bemidji, Minnesota; his brother Curtis Domsch of Melbourne, Florida; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Jon Dahlman; his nephew Eric Dahlman; his brother-in-law Tom Schwarzlander; his sister-in-law Fran Bengston and his brother-in-law Ron Bengston.
Dennis will receive a full military burial at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, where we will pay our final respects to a brave and dedicated serviceman. A celebration to honor Dennis’s life will be announced at a later date. Family and friends are invited to gather and salute his memory, sharing stories, laughter, and love as we remember the impact he had on all of us.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 32, 2265 N. Harbor City Blvd Melbourne, FL 32935, or to any organization that supports disabled veterans.
Dennis will be profoundly missed, but his enduring legacy of love, service, and generosity will continue to inspire and resonate within the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him.
