Dennis Lawrence Lusk lived life in a way that was unmistakably his own; patriotic, hardworking, sarcastic, loyal, and just quicky enough to keep everyone on their toes.  He passed away on May 22, 2026, in Apache Junction, Arizona, following a tragic fall.   Leaving behind a family and community that will deeply miss his steady presence, sharp wit and unforgettable personality.

Dennis proudly served in the United States Army during Vietnam as a drill sergeant and received the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during his service.  He loved his country fiercely and carried that patriotism with him throughout his life.  He believed the national anthem should be respected properly (and if someone sang it with too much "pizzazz," there would be a good chance everyone nearby was about to hear his opinion on it.)

After his military service, Dennis built a respected career in law and public service; Serving as both a county attorney and justice of the peace.  He believed in hard work, doing things the right way, and showing up for people when it mattered.

But the people who knew Dennis best will remember far more than his titles.  They'll remember the man who could build beautiful furniture with his own hands, who loved Porsche cars, who enjoyed riding quads and side-by-sides with friends, and who never lost his appreciation for craftsmanship, independence, and a good sarcastic comment.

Dennis loved mountain biking and road biking and fully embraced the world of cycling, including joking about "weight weenies" and every ounce shaved off a bike.  He enjoyed shooting with friends, loved a good crime or law show, and could always appreciate a well-told courtroom story.  And while he had many passions, he never missed an opportunity to brag about Susan's cooking, which he believed deserved recognition far beyond their own kitchen.

He also had an enormous soft spot for animals.  He adored his beloved dog, Halo, rescued numerous cats over the years, and faithfully fed the birds every single day.  In true Dennis fashion, when birds built a nest near his front door each year, he would block off the entire entrance to make sure no one disturbed the eggs or the babies after they hatched.  It was one of the many quiet ways his showed his kindness… not through grand speeches, but through steady care and protection for the creatures that depended on him.

He was a proud member of the Rotary Club and cared deeply about supporting young people in his community.  He became especially known for sponsoring and presenting the Silver Sword Award to local NJROTC students, an honor that reflected the values he respected most:  discipline, leadership, and service.

Dennis loved deeply, even if he sometimes expressed through teasing, dry humor, or stubborn advice.  His children and grandchildren especially endured his famous habit of "biting cheeks," a tradition that was equal parts affection and torment (depending on who you asked.)  Beneath the sarcasm and playful pestering was unwavering loyalty of a man his family could always count on.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Lusk; his children, Cassandra McLeod, and James Lusk: his grandchildren, Camery McLeod, Carson McLeod, and Zirkander Lusk; and his great-grandson, Graham Richardson.

He leaves behind countless friends, stories, rescued animals, handmade treasures, and memories that will continue to bring laughter long after the tears settle.

And somewhere, we can only assume Dennis is still correcting improper anthem performances, protecting birds from anyone getting too close to the nest, admiring a well-built piece of furniture, debating bike weights, bragging about Susan's cooking, and keeping a close eye on people-and animals- he loved most.