Dennis C. Carpenter

Dennis “Butch” Carl Carpenter, 75, died peacefully 4/13/2021 at his adult foster care home on Crystal Lake, Pelican Rapids, MN.

Butch was born 1/03/1946 to Gertrude and David Carpenter in Portland, Oregon. He graduated from Gresham Union High School, attended Pacific Lutheran College in Tacoma, Washington, and later a Nursing Home Administrative course.  After 4 years in the National Guard he received his honorable discharge. He worked at Electronic Specialty as shop steward, followed by his position as assistant manager of “Carpenter’s Senior Care Home” until his auto accident at age 27.  After a long rehabilitation he lived independently, developed a passion for coin collecting and riding his tricycle.  In 2007 his progressive disabilities required relocation close to his brother, James, in northwestern Minnesota.  He liked thoroughly his attendance at Cormorant Lutheran Church, particularly when he was a greeter.

All who met Butch were impressed by his “you got to play the cards your dealt” attitude with his persistent attempts to pursue activities beyond his physical abilities and his ever present cheerfulness and gratitude for his life despite the physical disabilities of his traumatic brain injury.  He was an inspiration to friends and family for his acceptance, adaptation, enthusiasm, generosity and positive attitude for which he will be emulated and, of course, missed.

He is survived by his brother, James (Susan) Carpenter and sister Teddy (Mark) Wilson, uncle Jack Carpenter, 2 nieces, 1 nephew and 7 great nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, April 18, 2021 at 3:00 P.M. at Cormorant Lutheran Church, Lake Park, MN.

To watch a livestream of the service beginning at 3:00 you can click on the link above or on the church’s website at www.cormorantlutheran.org as well as the church’s Facebook page.