Dennis Booms

Dennis Booms - Age 80, was born Feb. 25, 1943, in Harbor Beach, Mich., and died peacefully on July 5, 2023, at his home in Wausaukee in the arms of his wife of 52 years: Joan. He spent the preceding days peacefully surrounded by his three children: Nikki, Travis, and Terri and their families. He is preceded in death by his first child: Marie, and is survived by a large extended family. Dennis grew up on a small family farm in Harbor Beach with seven siblings where he developed a love for tractors and an understanding of hard work. He attended Maryknoll Seminary from 1961-69 where his faith and desire to serve God as a priest deepened. Ultimately, he felt called in a different direction and met and married Joan (Wolff) Booms in 1970. He got his Master's in social work from UW-Madison in 1975 and worked as a social worker for the Kaukauna school district from 1975-2005. He was among the first in Wisconsin to address alcohol and drug use prevention in high schools. In retirement, he and his wife created a beautiful home along the Menominee River where they enjoyed watching the ever-changing river and wildlife as well as hosting family. Dennis was a patient, gentle, and kind man who loved his wife, kids, and family with his whole heart and would do anything for them. He was an active member of the Catholic church where he enjoyed singing in the choir and teaching religious education. His religion was foundational to his life, but he was open, welcoming, and accepting of people from all backgrounds. While material things weren't that important to him, he loved John Deere tractors, a good meal enjoyed slowly, and the beauty of his riverside home. Dennis was a tremendous grandfather to his four grandkids: Elise, James, Leo, and Micah, who will miss him greatly. Dennis lived a healthy and active life until he was diagnosed with an aggressive late-stage cancer on June 24. He chose to live out his last days at home surrounded by family, who treasured the time to say goodbye and are grateful that his final days went swiftly and peacefully. Dennis deeply loved others and was deeply loved by so many. His quiet, accepting, calm demeanor remains an inspiration for us all. There will be a funeral mass for Dennis at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Wausaukee on Friday, July 21, at 7 p.m., preceded by a remembrance of life starting at 6 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for donations to help care for his autistic 8-year-old grandchild who requires extra help daily, a cause to which Dennis and Joan dedicated much of their last years together. Funds can be sent to Joan Booms or contributed directly at: https://gofund.me/9a0b9fb1