Dennis, Denny, Dad, Papa Macedo left all who loved him very unexpectedly and way too soon on November 16, 2024 an early Saturday morning. He had been in the hospital almost three weeks, with a severe case of pneumonia…but no one knew this would take Dennis from us.
Anyone who knew Dennis, knew that he was a man of few words…but the words that he did speak usually were off the wall and random, but they would usually leave a smile on your face, and you laughing. Even when Dennis was down, he always would offer up a “hey kiddo” and a fist bump.
As soon as he could walk, he was out in the fields with the rest of the Macedo’s helping on the farm. It could have been melons, sweet potatoes or whatever was in season Dennis would be knee deep helping out alongside his siblings, dad and even mom! They would work from sun up, to sun down, with mom bringing them lunch…they ate whatever she brought, they had no choices. If you knew Dennis, you knew he was “allergic” to lots of foods, but “allergic” really meant… he didn’t like it and once his mind was set there was no changing it. But this is the same man who loved a Bologna sandwich, with Miracle-whip not Mayo, a slice of American cheese and 2 slices of white bread. If the bologna was fried, then it was perfect.
Even with his chores at home, he made an impact at school. He attended all Turlock Schools from Kindergarten – his senior year. At Turlock High School, he was Class President, played Football and Wrestled. He then moved onto Modesto Junior College, to play some more football. But eventually he ended up back at the Macedo farm. After having a few different jobs, he landed at International Paper. Over 34 years, Dennis worked very hard and learned almost every position at IP, he would retire as the Production Materials Coordinator.
But between school, work and the farm, Dennis had plenty of time to cause lots of trouble, but he brought so much compassion and kindness with it. Dennis found enjoyment in lots of things throughout his 76 years of living. Most were per the usual… he was a lifelong fan of the Giants and 49ers. He enjoyed golfing and even worked at the Stevinson Ranch Pro-Shop. Another passion was Music, good old Classic Rock. You would hear him coming a mile away (some of this was because he was very hard of hearing), but there came Dennis, music blaring, Dennis would know every word. He could match a song to everyday, and every situation…those who knew him called a walking jukebox. Many of you may have seen Dennis walking the roads and streets of Turlock, looking for cans and bottles. Every day he would go for at least a six mile walk rain or shine, with no destination, plan or time limit. During the walk he would cleanup Turlock, by picking up the cans and bottles. After years of doing this, he eventually had people who had become faithful customers and friends. They would wait for him weekly, for him to make his rounds, and add to his collection. After getting all the recycling home, he would then organize it and smash it, bag it and then he would make the trip to the recycling center to collect his earnings. He had quite the set up. This fun money was used for different things, but the main being, trips to Black Oak Casino. These were Dennis’s mini getaways, sometimes he would even hit the Jack Pot. But then in 2001 to everyone surprise, Dennis would say he found his lifelong Good Luck Charm and/or Jack Pot Gracie. Gracie would say, the same. Dennis and Gracie were introduced by friends, and before we all knew it the two were inseparable. You could find them watching the Warriors Games, eating early dinners at Applebee’s, and taking long drives to the Beach. Another big surprise, was when the two got married. Many might have called them the odd couple. After all a Portuguese Man and Dutch Women….but it really seemed to work. Before anyone knew it, Gracie was following golf, and learning about basketball. Dennis was rolling around on the front grass looking for weeds, and pruning the Roses down to nothing. With their marriage, their families blended…and soon each side of the families easily saw how perfect and happy they were. October 25th was their 21st wedding Anniversary…and even with all the worlds’ craziness, the two made a point to get away to their special spot, just for one night to celebrate the love the shared for each other! No one knew that this would be the last time they would be able to do this in person…this last anniversary will be cherished more then ever. It reminds us all, never to take time or each other for granted, because neither is promised.
Dennis is proceeded in death by his parents John and Helen Macedo. He left behind Gracie his loving wife of 21 years, daughter Julie Macedo, son Craig Macedo, his stepdaughters Melissa Wallen (Greg) and Alisha Fitzgerald. His three grandchildren, Nathaniel Wallen and Craigs children Lilly and Ben Macedo. Dennis will also be missed by his siblings, Raymond (Rosemany), Virgina Stene, Lawrence (Maureen), Ronald (Karen), and Marianne Grubb (Mark). Dennis was also blessed to have many nephews, nieces, and loads of other relatives, friends, fellow classmates, and past-coworkers that will all miss him dearly.
To honor Dennis’ wishes, there will be no funeral services of any kind. But the family invites you to remember and celebrate Dennis in your own private way. We don’t think he would be disappointed if you took your chance at a game of video poker, recycled a few cans, or even took a long drive along the beach with the windows open and blasting some Classic Rock on the Radio! In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Jessica’s House, 1225 W. Christoffersen Pkwy, Turlock Ca, 95382.
