Dennis Filippelli, a devoted educator and psychologist whose life was paved with a commitment to serving those with academic, behavioral, and developmental disabilities, has passed away at age 87. He was born July 11, 1938, in Kenosha, WI, the son of the late Frank and Rosina (Salerno) Filippelli. He graduated from Bradford High School with the class of 1956, and proudly served in the U.S. Army National Guard. In August 1964, he married the love of his life, Noreen McIlhone, in Waukesha, WI.
In pursuit of knowledge and improving the lives of others, Dennis earned his Master’s Degree in Education and Psychology from Cardinal Stritch College and continued his post-graduate work at Marquette University, UW-Madison, and the University of Alabama.
For over 20 years, Dennis was the Executive Director of the Developmental Disabilities Service Center in Kenosha, WI, however his legacy led him to fill many other roles including counselor, administrator, and school psychologist. He began his professional journey as an elementary school teacher in the early 1960’s and most recently served as an instructor at Carthage College, where he supervised new teachers.
His advocacy for others extended to public service, including serving on the Governor’s Committee for People with Disabilities with a remarkable 25-year tenure as an appointee to the Wisconsin Council on Developmental Disabilities by four different governors. Dennis was an honoree and past President of numerous organizations, including the Italian Business and Professional Association, the Kenosha County Ice Arena, the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Association of Developmental Disabilities, and the Wisconsin Council on Developmental Disabilities.
His service was recognized with the Kenosha Jaycees Outstanding Young Man of the Year Award and a selection as one of the Outstanding Young Men of America for Community Service. He also served on the Kenosha Public Museum’s Board of Trustees and its Foundation Board of Directors, as well as the Bradford Alumni Association Board of Directors and the Wisconsin and Gateway Associations of School Psychologists.
Despite his devotion to knowledge and community, Dennis always found time to make lasting memories with family and friends. He loved a lively football weekend, listening to crooners and grabbing a coffee at Mac’s Deli with friends. Dennis had a unique way of making others feel special by greeting old and new acquaintances alike, with a friendly smile and hearty hello.
One of his greatest achievements and joys in life was building a family with his beloved wife of 61 years, Noreen. He is survived by Noreen; two sons, Mike (Heather) Filippelli of Pewaukee, WI and Mark (Jasmin) Filippelli of Kenosha, WI; grandchildren Jacob, Rosiline, Josephine, and Estella; sister, Maria (Brian) Young and sister-in-law, Debbie Filippelli.
In addition to his parents, Dennis was preceded in death by siblings, Francine (James) Larson, Ronald Filippelli, Juliette Filippelli; and two children in infancy, Denise and Martin Filippelli.
Visitation for Dennis will take place from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Proko Funeral Home. A prayer service will be held at 10:15 a.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Proko Funeral Home with a procession to St. Mary Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 11:00 a.m., and interment with military honors will follow in St. George Cemetery, Kenosha, WI. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions to Special Olympics, in his memory at www.specialolympics.org
Condolences
Linda Heitzinger
March 4, 2026
I had the privilege of working with Dennis at Starbuck. He was a wonderful, kind man. My sympathies to his family. Linda Heitzinger
Kathy Azzolina
March 4, 2026
Dennis was a great mentor and colleague when I first began my career as a special education teacher in KUSD. The students loved him and so did the faculty. I’m happy to honor you for your life of service to others. May the angels welcome you home!
Michael Rivera
March 3, 2026
I’ll never forget practically growing up in their house and every single time I stepped into that house, I was greeted with the biggest smile and open arms.He was more than just my best friend’s Father, he was the Father I never had. You will be missed beyond words, rest in peace and may the Lord greet you with the biggest smile and open arms.
Carolyn Andro
March 2, 2026
Dennis was always around our home and us around his since my father was childhood friends with him, he was like having another “Godfather” around, whether it was watching football with all the guys in the basement, hanging out at the ice rink, or heading to a hockey tournament, he always had a smile and always made you laugh! God Bless to all the Fillipelli family, from the youngest member of the Andro family, Love, Hugs and Prayers, Carolyn