Dennis Keith Freerksen

Dennis Keith Freerksen, a man whose laughter was as contagious as his love for a perfectly grilled steak, left us on August 26, 2025, after a brave battle with a lung disease. Born on May 3, 1958, in the charming town of Owatonna, Minnesota, Dennis grew to become a man of great humor, warmth, and an uncanny ability to turn even the most mundane moments into memories filled with chuckles.

Dennis's journey took him from the chilly winds of Minnesota to the warm embrace of Temple, Texas and Hilltop Lakes, Texas where he became a fixture of the community. For 40 years, he served the gas company with a dedication that was matched only by his commitment to perfecting his grilled steak or brisket and ribs.

Married to, Kim, Dennis was a family man through and through. His son, Christopher, and daughter-in-law, Kaylee, alongside his daughter, Sadie, and son-in-law, Steve Kline, were the apples of his eye, and he never missed an opportunity to regale them with tales that often started with, "This one time, at the gas company..." His stories will be retold and cherished for generations to come.

A devout Christian, Dennis had a faith that was as deep as his love for a good meal. He often said that the way to a man's heart wasn't just through his stomach but also through his spirit, and he nurtured both with equal fervor. Sundays you would find him by the grill in the afternoon, serving up both soul food and food for the soul.

Dennis's interests were as varied as the spices in his rubs. His passion for cooking was legendary, and his BBQs were the talk of the town. But it was his innate desire to help people that truly set him apart. Dennis never met a stranger, only friends he hadn't shared a meal with yet.

As we bid farewell to Dennis, we do so with a smile, because that's how he would have wanted it. His laughter echoes in our hearts, and his legacy is one of joy, generosity, and a life well-lived. Dennis Keith Freerksen may have taken his final bow, but the curtain will never truly close on the impact he made and the happiness he spread. So here's to Dennis, a man who taught us that life is not just about the breaths we take, but the moments that take our breath away—preferably while laughing and with a mouthful of delicious food.

in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Kids Fish at Fort Boggy State Park