Dennis Lutterman

Dennis Lutterman passed away after a brief battle with cancer on 3-17-24 in Brainerd, MN. Dennis was born 10-21-42 in Elm Creek Township, a small rural area, outside of Sherburn, MN.  He was the second of nine children born to Robert and Irene (Gersch) Lutterman. He grew up on the farm, and as the eldest son, worked hard. Chores from sunup to sundown, but he also had great times with siblings, friends, and cousins.  In high school, he was a good athlete, playing football, basketball and running track, and was strong at his academics. He attended St John’s University, Mankato State, and the University of Iowa where he earned his masters degree in Physical Therapy. He met the love of his life, Darlene Oelkers, while in high school. They later moved to Brainerd in 1969 and raised their three children. They inspired a love of travel and took the family on 4000-mile road trips every summer. 

 Dennis was a dedicated, talented physical therapist and director of PT for Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Brainerd, beginning in 1969, and retiring in 2004. He was on the Minnesota State Board of Physical Therapy for many years, a member of Sertoma, a longtime member of Saint Andrews Parish and served on various church boards and was an avid bowler and golfer. We believe he would say his greatest accomplishment was his three children and his five grandchildren. He loved us unconditionally and supported us in all of our endeavors. He lit up around his grandchildren, Gabrielle, Ryan, Sydney, John and Nicholas. He and Darlene drove many miles to be with them, witness their sports and activities, and cheer them on.  Together they attended many soccer matches, baseball, volleyball, softball, and basketball games, pageants, choir concerts, theater productions, and later, graduation ceremonies.  They were both fortunate to attend every high school graduation of their grandchildren. He was a pillar of strength within our family and our guiding light. He faced the challenges of the past year with unwavering courage and selflessness, caring for his dear wife with boundless love and dedication.  Darlene and Dennis were married 60 years June 29, 2023. 

His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support will forever reside in our hearts. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us each day. We find solace in knowing that he is reunited with loved ones who have gone before him and that his suffering is over. We will cherish the memories we shared and carry his legacy of compassion and resilience forward. Dennis is survived by wife, Darlene, his children Lee Lutterman (Barb), Lori Rossini (Jeff) and Julie Lutterman (Dimitri Ndreko), his five grandchildren, his eight siblings and spouses, Darlene’s siblings and spouses, and over 130 immediate family members. He is also survived by his dear Brainerd life-long friends, golf and bowling buddies, his dinner and card club groups, church member friends, and former colleagues; all who cherished his wit, phone calls, and camaraderie. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Irene, and niece Alison Lutterman. Dennis, you were one of a kind. Until we meet again, dear dad, your light will shine brightly in our lives.  You will live in our hearts forever. We love you very much. Services will be held on Friday, April 5th at 11 am at St. Andrews Catholic Church, with visitation one hour earlier. Luncheon will be served. Interment will be held at a later date, in Sherburn, Mn.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.  Dennis' family would love to hear your memories of him. Please email memories to DENDAR1814@CHARTER.NET

To watch the Memorial Service via Livestream at St. Andrews, please click here
 
 Arrangements are entrusted to Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter.