May 11, 1949 – Dec. 7, 2024

Dennis M. Gurka, 75, beloved husband, father, Pa and friend, passed away peacefully on Dec. 7 at his home in La Crescenta surrounded by family after a short but brave battle with cancer.

Born in Haverhill, Massachusetts on May 11, 1949, Dennis moved to Pasadena with his family when he was 10 years old and quickly embraced the Southern California lifestyle. He attended Blair High School where he played football and it was during those years that he met the love of his life Judy.

Before getting married, Dennis went on to proudly serve our country as an infantryman during Vietnam, something he was extremely proud of. After the war, Dennis and Judy married in La Crescenta and had two beautiful daughters, Allison and Jennifer, who he cherished. 

Dennis spent over 40 years in various sales leadership and marketing roles as an executive, mentor and friend to so many. The outpouring from business friends and colleagues has been a testament to the impact he had on so many, both personally and professionally. 

Dennis loved to travel with his wife and daughters, taking countless trips all over the U.S. exploring the rich history, beautiful cities and gorgeous beaches that make up the country he loved and fought to protect. He loved to be in the water and had a real soft spot for Hawaii (where he was once stationed) and the California desert – Palm Springs and La Quinta, where so many beautiful memories were made – with his family and four grandchildren Lyla, Ben, Kate and Evan, who he adored. 

Some of his happiest moments were time spent with his grandkids in the pool, working on fun projects together or attending their sporting events. Dennis was proud to have volunteered with the Boys & Girls Club for many years. Dennis also cherished his friendships, whether it was his war buddies, work friends or people he met in his daily life. He hosted an annual reunion of friends from high school at his home in La Quinta. Getting to share those endless stories and laughs together was something Dennis always felt was truly a gift. 

Dennis is survived by his loving wife Judy, and daughters/sons-in-law Allison and Rich Grochola, and Jennifer and Will Selva. Dennis loved his family and we loved him. The beautiful memories we have with him will carry on forever. Funeral Mass will be held at St. James the Less Catholic Church, 4651 Dunsmore Ave. in Glendale/La Crescenta on Friday, Dec 13 at 11 a.m.