Dennis Ray Broxholm

Dennis Ray Broxholm

January 17, 1950 - September 12, 2022
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Dennis Ray Broxholm, aged 72, of Great Falls passed away on September 12, 2022.

Dennis was born on January 17, 1950, to Ray and Ardis Broxholm. He was raised in Battle Creek, Michigan with his siblings, John, Mary Beth, and Katie. He attended Lakeview High School, where he was involved in band, honors government, and the future physicians club. Like most Michiganders, Dennis was passionate about the Detroit Lions, Tigers, Redwings, and cars, including his Austin Healey. 

After high school, Dennis served in the United States Army from August 27, 1969, to March 25, 1971. He fought in the Vietnam war as a member of the 199th Infantry Brigade. While he rarely spoke of his time in the war, he was awarded several medals, including the Bronze Star. Dennis was honorably discharged, earning the rank of Sergeant.

Following his military service, Dennis headed west to Big Sky Country. Serendipity stepped in when he met Julie Ann O'Rourke on a blind date in Great Falls, Montana. They were married on March 1, 1975, at Holy Family Church in Great Falls. 

In August of 1983, Dennis and Julie welcomed their first child, Timothy Ray Broxholm. In March of 1987, their family grew with the addition of their daughter, Molly Ann Broxholm. 

Dennis spent most of his career at Sears in sales and asset protection management. He was known for his tremendous work ethic, commitment, and sense of loyalty to his customers and colleagues. Dennis was always passionate about serving others and making everyone feel welcomed, respected, and valued. Customers would constantly return to the store and only want Dennis to help them because they knew he always had their best interest at heart. 

Over his decades living in Montana, Dennis developed numerous meaningful friendships. He enjoyed playing softball and especially treasured the time he spent with his buddies on his bowling team at the Elks club. 

Dennis's hobbies included going to auto shows, building model cars, and collecting coins, pocketknives, and pins of places he traveled with his family. In addition to his uncanny and natural artistic abilities, Dennis was a true DIYer, including designing and building the deck on the back of the family's home. 

Later in life, Dennis demonstrated bravery, grit, and a warrior's spirit as he beat brain cancer. Winning this battle meant he was there for life's big and small moments, including welcoming his daughter-in-law, Danielle Broxholm, into the family. Most importantly, he spent time cherishing his grandchildren, Laura Eichner, Jude Broxholm, Raymond Broxholm, and Joey Broxholm.

Ultimately, Dennis will always be remembered for his infectious smile, pride in his Scandinavian roots, humility, humor, kindness, courage, resilience, and putting his family first, no matter the cost or sacrifice.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Julie; son, Timothy (Danielle) Broxholm and daughter, Molly Broxholm; grandchildren, Laura (Alison, Maria, Mike, and Joanna) Eichner, Jude Broxholm, Raymond Broxholm, Joseph Broxholm; siblings, Katie Mackey and Mary Beth (Cattin) Broxholm; and extended family including nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Ardis Broxholm; and his brother, John Broxholm. 

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, September 24, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Schnider Funeral Home. A celebration of life reception will follow the service. Instead of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or the Junior Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF). 

Memorial Service

Schnider Funeral Home, Inc.
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  • 1510 13th Street South
    Great Falls, Montana 59405

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