Dennis Heller

Dennis James Heller, 70, of Davenport, ND, passed away unexpectedly at his home on July 15, 2026.

Dennis was born on June 2, 1956, in Fargo, ND. He grew up in rural Leonard, ND, on the family farm with his father, Lloyd, and two brothers, David and Dale. In 1974, Lloyd married Carol Sapp, adding Kent and Angela to the family. During his freshman year of high school, Dennis met Beverly Hahn, the forever love of his life. He graduated from Leonard High School in 1975. 

On August 23, 1975, Dennis and Bev united in marriage at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Leonard, ND. They began their life together at the Heller family farmstead, where they were blessed with two children, Briana and Levi. In 1986, they made their home in Davenport, ND.

Dennis’ love of farming began in childhood on the family farm and grew into a lifelong career in the agricultural and farming industry. Most recently, he worked at Braaten Farms, where he was a respected and valued farm advisor. Dennis loved talking about his adventures on the farm, sharing pictures, and taking the grandkids for rides in “his” lucky No. 1 John Deere combine. 

Dennis’ greatest joy was caring for and being with his family. From washing clothes to cooking meals, doing the grocery shopping, washing cars, and fixing anything brought his way, he approached everything with patience and a teacher’s heart. Over the years, he enjoyed riding his Harley, including bike trips to Sturgis, Glacier National Park, the Grand Tetons, and the Grand Canyon, among others. Dennis and Bev also loved traveling, with numerous trips to Disney World and recent adventures to Alaska, Greece/Mediterranean, Spain, Italy and a special 50th anniversary trip to England, Scotland, and Ireland.  Dennis also loved sharing memories and stories from his life. One of his favorites was tracking down and locating his high school muscle car, a 1970 Dodge Challenger, in 2005.

Another of Dennis’ greatest blessings was his four grandchildren. They were the light of his life, and he poured his whole heart into being present for them. He enjoyed watching them grow, celebrating their milestones, and cheering them on in everything they did. Whether attending their special events, sharing everyday moments, or simply spending time together, Dennis found joy in the bond he had with each of them. 

Dennis is survived by his wife of 50 years, Bev; his children Briana (Kelly) Brandt and Levi (Tia) Heller; and his grandchildren Averi Brandt, Gus Heller, Cade Brandt, and Emma Heller. He is also survived by his stepmother, Carol Heller; brother Dale (DeDe) Heller; step-sister Angela (Nasir) Bruer-Balouch; sister-in-law Joyce Larson; brothers-in-law Robert (Eileen) Hahn and Rodney (Peggy) Hahn; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and many dear friends. 

Dennis was preceded in death by his father, Lloyd Heller; in-laws Robert and Thelma Hahn; brother David Heller; sisters-in-law Betty Pietsch, Ellie Hahn, and Barb Hahn; brother-in-law Larry Pietsch; and step-brother Kent Sapp.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dennis Heller Family, with donations to be given to Davenport and Kindred First Responders in Dennis’ memory.

Memorial Service: Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 11am, at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Leonard, ND, with visitation one hour before the service.

Burial: Watson Cemetery, rural Leonard, ND.

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