Dennis Charles Whitaker, 79 of Nevada, passed away Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at MercyOne Medical Center in Des Moines.

Dennis was born on December 8, 1944, in Eldora, IA, the son of Charles Richard and Doris Jean (Reed) Whitaker. He graduated from NESCO High School in 1962 and started Whitaker Construction, which he owned for 60 years. Dennis was united in marriage to Susan Wilson on December 30, 1987, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Nevada. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and playing golf. His biggest joy was spending time with his wife, daughters and granddaughters.

Surviving Dennis are his wife Susan of Nevada; his daughters Denise (Stan) Reed of Phoenix, AZ and Jill (Tadd) Griffith of Nevada; and his granddaughters Katie and Grace Reed of Phoenix, AZ. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Carol Johnson.

Honoring Dennis' wishes, a private family burial will be at the Lincoln Township Cemetery in Zearing.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of Dennis to the Nevada First Responders.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada is caring for Dennis and his family. Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.rasmussonfh.com.