Dennis Hayes Aldrich

Dennis Hayes Aldrich, age 81, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on August 7, 2026. He was born on January 25, 1945, the son of Lyle and Leona (Skenadore) Aldrich. Dennis grew up in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, where he attended local schools.

Dennis was deeply proud of his Native American heritage and his connection to the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin. He was honored to be presented with an Eagle Feather, a recognition he was proud of.

Dennis bravely served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, completing two tours overseas. During his service, he was a member of the 1st Cavalry, 7th Cavalry, and the 25th Infantry “Wolfhounds.” His sergeant gave him the nickname “Gazelle” because of how fast he could run. As a point man on missions, Dennis was often tasked with carrying more than 40 grenades in his mine bag.

His courageous service came at a tremendous personal cost. Dennis was awarded the Purple Heart after stepping on a landmine, an injury that ultimately left him 100% disabled. He was featured in a Vietnam “Dustoff” documentary. The film showed the helicopter medevac him to the MASH hospital for treatment and finally returning home. The documentary is called To Save a Soldier available on YouTube. Dennis was also honored to participate in the Honor Flight program, an experience that allowed him to reflect on and share his service with others.

Upon returning home, Dennis married Bonnie Altergott, and together they raised three children. He went on to dedicate 33 years of his career to Kenosha Memorial Hospital, where he served as Head of Maintenance and Engineering until his retirement in 2011.

He was a devoted family man who enjoyed the time he spent with those he loved. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a way of bringing laughter to those around him. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, watching sports, and buying new cars.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Bonnie Aldrich; children, Dennis (Billie) Schmunck, Melanie (Greg) Kunkel, and Duane (Stephanie) Aldrich; grandchildren, Cameron, Benjamin, Ava, Owen, Araya, Abbie, and Aricka; and sister, Nancy (Robert) Kozlowski. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Dennis is preceded in death by his grandson, Joshua Schmunck; four sisters, and two brothers.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all of Dennis’s home care nurses for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to him over the years.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Dennis’s honor to a veterans’ charity of your choosing.

A Celebration of Life service with Military Honors will be held on Saturday August 22, 2026 at 11:00 am at The Parkway Chateau (Grand Hall) 12304 75th St. Kenosha, WI. 53142. Visitation until time of service at 1:00 pm.