by Erin Dugan
Dennis Dugan loved a good story and to have a little fun along the way.
A true humanitarian at heart, he found creative ways to raise funds for his special projects.
After he obtained donations for the Tracy Dugan Library at St. Anthony of Padua School, Dennis moved on to establish a golf tournament to benefit St. Anthony of Padua School. He then worked his fundraising magic on the City of Casa Grande Union High School FFA Steak Fry.
His most recent endeavor and passion had been the creation of Pinal 40, a fraternal organization dedicated to providing support and funding for Pinal County youth and education.
Denis was born in Manitowoc, Wisconsin and moved to Chandler with his parents and six brothers — his parents began a dairy operation there. He graduated from the University of Arizona in 1972 and was a proud Wildcat.
In 1984, Dennis moved to Casa Grande where he started Triple D Dairy. In 1985 he married Kelly Hackler. They had two children, Tracy and David.
Dennis was involved in many community services including United Dairyman of Arizona Board of Directors, Project CENTRL Class 5, Arizona Beef Council, Casa Grande St. Anthony School Board, City of Casa Grande Industrial Development Authority Board, City of Casa Grande Planning and Zoning Board, Casa Grande Boys and Girls Club Executive Board.
His big, full-bodied laugh was a thing of beauty. He will be tremendously missed.
