Staunton Star - Times - Published in the Interest of the Staunton Community for Over 143 Years

Dennis G. Nowell, 72, formerly of Mt. Olive Ill., died peacefully on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in St. Louis, Mo. He was born in Portageville, Mo., on Oct. 24, 1950, the son of Thomas and Roberta (DeRousse) Nowell. He married his high school sweetheart, Sharon Knes, in Mt. Olive on June 6, 1970, and she preceded him in death on April 18, 2012. He met Paulette Crawford in 2014, and they married on Sept. 24, 2016. She survives.

Dennis spent his early childhood years in Granite City before the family moved to Mt. Olive where he graduated high school and then lived most of his life. He worked in various manufacturing management roles throughout his career, including Fiat-Allis and Dana Brake Parts. He was a consummate handyman, and he was extremely generous with his time and skills, always lending a hand when needed. His country property provided many years of enjoyment including hunting and fishing, along with countless opportunities to build and fix things. In recent years, Dennis was blessed with two grandchildren who absolutely adored him, and vice versa.

He is survived by his wife, Paulette Nowell; his daughter, Terri Nowell (Steve Jansen); grandchildren, Eli Jansen, Grace Jansen; siblings, Thomas (Karen) Nowell, Jan (Fred) Straub, Ronald (Sue) Nowell, Louis Nowell, Marilyn (Randy) Moss; stepsons, Tim (Joan) Crawford, Matt Crawford; special grandchildren, Lauren Jansen Mills, Drew Jansen, and Weston, Edison and Lincoln Crawford; brothers-in-law, Ed (Alma) Knes, Don Mathenia and Phil (Sheryl) Forbeck; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sharon; daughter, Kimberly; parents-in-law, Lawrence and Shirley Knes; a sister, Rosetta Mathenia; and a sister-in-law, Sue (Meyer) Nowell.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 23, at Zion Lutheran Church in Mt. Olive, with Pastor Wayland Middendorf officiating. Interment was at Mt. Olive City Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Mt. Olive City Cemetery, Zion Lutheran Church or the Alzheimer's Association. Condolences may be left online at beckerandson.com. Becker and Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.