Dennis Fonk, 76, beloved husband, dad, grandpa, brother and uncle passed away at Hospice WPB on Thursday, March 10, 2016, after a lengthy illness and broken heart following the loss of his wife, Janet last November. Dennis was born on February 4, 1940 as the son of Herbert & Ann Fonk (now deceased) in Decatur, IL, where he lived until they moved to South Florida in 1963. Dennis served in the military as an MP in the US Army and was honorably discharged in 1968. He married his high school sweetheart and love of his life Janet in 1968. Together they had one daughter, Johanna "Jodi", and continued to live in South Florida until both he and Janet passed. Professionally, after leaving the military, Dennis embarked on a career at Winn Dixie Supermarkets. Dennis enjoyed a 30 plus year career at Winn Dixie and retired as a Market Manager 1998. Since his retirement, Dennis loved spending time with his "greatest joy"; his wife, daughter, grandkids and family. He also enjoyed going to the gun range and working outside. Dennis was lovingly called "The Mayor" by his neighbors. Dennis always enjoyed helping his neighbors with anything mechanical. If anyone had lawn equipment or a golf cart that was broken, they could always rely on Dennis for lending the tools to fix it or even helping or taking over fixing it himself. Dennis also had an extensive love of firearms and would offer information to anyone in need and would always lend a hand in educating people about firearms and maintaining them, repairing them and teaching people how to be a responsible gun owner. In short, Dennis was the go-to-guy in the neighborhood. Dennis leaves behind the legacy of a beautiful family who adored him and many friends who cherished and respected him. Dennis is survived by his only daughter Johanna "Jodi" (& Jimmy) Ellis, and his two grandchildren, Jillian & Jeremy. He is also survived by his brother, Alan Fonk; his brother/sister-in-laws, A. Conrad Kurtz, and David and Cheryl Ross; his cousins: Darlene (& Jim) Ludwig, Bonnie (& Dick) Payette, Gary (& Joan) Skovronski; his many nieces and nephews - Lisa, Phillip, Sandy, Mike, Chad, Jessica, Emily, Billy, Autumn, Jenny, and James; and those that we are honored to call close friends/family. The Celebration of Dennis' life will be held at Palms West Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 22nd from 5 to 8 PM with services beginning at 7 PM, followed by his entombment on Wednesday, March 23rd starting at 11 AM at Boca Raton Mausoleum. Jodi asks that in lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Hospice of Palm Beach n/k/a Trust Bridge for the caring, peaceful services that they provided to both Dennis & Janet.
