Dennis was born on March 20, 1943, in Wahiawa, Hawaii, to Charles and Edna Sakuma. He passed away on October 6, 2022, in Salt Lake, Hawaii. He was a graduate of Leilehua High School and the University of Hawaii at Manoa.Dennis served in the Army Reserves Ninth Corps (IX Corps) at Fort DeRussy. He decided to end it after six years of service to spend more time with family and dedicate more time to Waianae High School. He worked at Waianae High School for twenty years as a Biology Teacher, an Outreach Counselor, and a Grade Level Counselor. He was also involved with the JV Football, Cross Country, and Track programs. Dennis went on to work at Moanalua High School as a College and Career Counselor for ten years before retiring. Since Dennis was still young at that time and loved working with kids of all ages, he continued to work as a long term, counselor sub at Mililani Uka Elementary, Mililani Middle, Hickam Elementary and Campbell and Roosevelt High Schools. Dennis also worked at Hawaii Youth Challenge at Barbers Point where he enjoyed the rigorous but rewarding calling. He truly enjoyed his work and was an avid supporter of all kids furthering their education after high school. He encouraged all levels of students to do their best whether it be a trade school or an Ivy League College.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Karen; daughter LyAnn Sakuma (Todd Niizawa); son Graig (Krista); grandsons Drake and Jax; and sister Diane Chow-Hoy (Douglas). Dennis was also blessed with nephews, nieces, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, January 19, 2023,
at Mililani Mortuary, Mauka Chapel.
Visitation: 9:00 - 10:00 a.m.; Service: 10:00 a.m.
