Dennis Knight

Dennis Knight, 78, passed peacefully into the presence of the Lord on June 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on August 12, 1947, Dennis was a lifelong resident of Merced, California. Raised on a dairy, he developed the strong work ethic and resilience that would define his life. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War before returning home to build a life centered on family, hard work, and the land he loved. He worked in demolition and cattle ranching, finding great satisfaction in caring for his ranch and spending time outdoors.

Dennis shared nearly 56 years of marriage with his beloved and dedicated wife, Jeanie. Together they built a life grounded in perseverance and devotion to family. He is survived by Geniece (Jeanie); his daughters, Tammie Knight and Sandi Knight; his grandchildren, Dylan Daugherty, Noah Lund, Carson Lund, and Sophia Lund; and a great-granddaughter expected in October 2026.

He is also survived by his siblings, Phillip Knight (Margaret), Judy Carlson (Nels), Paulette Hilk (Tom), and Vicki Contreras (John), along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Knight and Donna Hanks, and his brother, Ronnie Paul Knight.

For 32 years, Dennis faced multiple sclerosis with remarkable determination and strength. Though confined to a wheelchair, he refused to let his circumstances define him, meeting life’s challenges with grit, courage, and an unwavering spirit.

Nothing brought Dennis greater joy than family gatherings, backyard barbecues, swimming, pool parties, hunting and fishing trips, gardening, and time spent on his ranch with his faithful dog, Boots. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart and will forever remember his songs and the way he would smile and say, “I’ve got you now, and I’m not gonna let you go.”

Dennis will be remembered for his humility, toughness, strong work ethic, devotion to family, love of country, quiet wisdom, generous heart, and trademark grin. He taught more by example than by words, leaving a legacy that will continue through the family he loved and the lives he touched.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

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