CASCO — Dennis Keith “Denny” Lennon, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2018.

He was the son of the late Arthur and Jeanette (LaPierre) Lennon. He grew up in Portland, graduated from Cheverus High School and attended Wentworth Institute in Boston.

Denny's welcoming smile and generosity brightened the lives of all he encountered. His creativity and love of hands-on work were reflected in his employment at the Maine Central Railroad and as general manager of the Sheraton Inn in North Conway, N.H., and the Wisconsin's Central LTD in Wisconsin.

Joan was quoted, "Denny was my rock. He was there for everything and the loss of his life will be difficult." They traveled most of the U.S. and Canada, spending a month in Zimbabwe, Africa, doing volunteer work at the New Start Orphanage. He loved sailing Casco Bay and the Caribbean. His newest great-grandchild, was the apple of his eye.

He will be missed by his wife, Joan, of 32 years; sons, John Paul of Portland, Mark Daniel of Maryland, daughter Rachel Wenzel of Portland; stepson Joseph Green and stepdaughter Janine Mattatall of Windham, and Joan's stepdaughter Cheryl of New Gloucester; three grandchildren; one step-grandson; and four great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife, Louise Lacey, Sam Lennon and his step-granddaughter, Danyelle Doyle.

Visiting hours celebrating Den's life were held from 1 to 4 p.m., on Sunday, Dec. 30, at the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 172 State St., Portland. A memorial service followed at 4 p.m. To view Denny's memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com