Dennis T. Oudenhoven

Dennis T. Oudenhoven, 59, passed away at home Tuesday afternoon with his family at his side after a seventeen month battle with brain cancer. He was born February 9, 1950, the son of Ted and Elaine Oudenhoven. He grew up in Green Bay, attending St. Agnes Elementary School and Sacred Heart Seminary. He graduated from St. Norbert College in 1972 and later earned his master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
A life-long educator, Denny began his teaching career at St John's High School in Little Chute. He then spent four years at St. Mary's in Menasha. In 1977 he began his 32 year career at Xavier High School. During those 32 years, Denny taught numerous classes including British Literature, Honors English 4, Journalism, Creative Writing, and Latin. He was recognized many times for his excellence and dedication to his profession by his peers, the Fox Cities Community, and the Green Bay Catholic Diocese. He was also a dedicated track and basketball coach. He received multiple coach-of-the-year honors and was a two-time recipient of the Red Smith award. Denny's teachings went beyond the classroom or athletic field. His genuine Christian values made him a role model. He will be remembered by all who knew him as a gentleman, scholar, friend, mentor, and quiet leader. He is preceded in death by his mother, Elaine Oudenhoven and Carla's parents, Carl and Fran Reitzner. He is survived by his wife Carla, son, Chip, his wife Jennifer, and their children Connor and Grant, daughter, Shannon (Daniels), her husband Doug, and their children Ryan and Keira, and son, Dave. He is further survived by his father, Ted, brothers, Pat (Julie) and Kurt, sister, Becky (Tom Lane) and godsons, Matt Oudenhoven and Brian Lane. Other survivors include his sister-in-law Joan (Duane Pahl) and brother-in-law Chuck Reitzner (Diane). Many other aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews will miss him. The family wants to extend their deepest thanks and gratitude to Dr. Phil Yazbak, Dr. Meena Thiruvanu, Dr. Steve Howard, Dr. James Richter, and the Heartland Hospice staff especially Michael Vissers and Mike Mitchell. Additional thanks go to the ACESXavier community and special friends Pat and Patti Voss. Funeral services for Denny will be held at St. Mary Parish, 312 S. State St., Appleton on Friday, November 27, 2009, at 7:00 pm. Friends may visit the family from 3:00 pm until the time of the service at the church on Friday. Memorials in Denny's honor are being established.
Wichmann Funeral Home
Tri-County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida St.
Menasha (920) 831-9905