Dennis James Philpott
August 16, 1952 - May 31, 2017
Dennis James Philpott of Pleasant Hill, California, passed away at his home on Wednesday, May 31, after a courageous battle with brain cancer. He was 64 years old. Throughout his illness, he remained surrounded by family, friends, and his beloved dachshunds, a testament to the love and generosity he shared with so many.
Born in August 16, 1952, Dennis grew up in Los Altos, California. He was a graduate of Bellarmine College Preparatory in San Jose, California; Occidental College in Los Angeles, California; and the UCLA Anderson School of Management. He was a human resources executive in the financial industry for many years, becoming a consultant later in his career. In recent years, Dennis pursued his lifelong passion for piano by studying music education and becoming a piano instructor.
Dennis is preceded in death by his parents Russell and Lorraine Philpott and his partner of more than twenty years, David Kiyokawa.
Together, Dennis and David were world travelers, lavish hosts, theater aficionados, and attentive companions to their dogs Peggy and Lucy. Their homes in Pleasant Hill and Palm Springs, California, were decorated with art and treasures from their many adventures, and always filled with conversation, cheer, and good company. Holiday gatherings at their home often kicked off with custom cocktails and personalized menus, and ended with Dennis playing piano by the fire.
Dennis is survived by his sister Janet Leavitt of Lake Oswego, Oregon, his brothers Russ Philpott of Sunnyvale, California and Jeff Philpott of Monterey, California, his sister-in-law Carol Philpott of Sunnyvale, his nieces Jennifer Trimble and Melissa Leavitt, and his nephews Russell and Ryan Philpott. His wit, vitality, and adventurous spirit will be missed by his family and his many dear friends.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Memorial contributions can be sent to West Coast Children’s Clinic, 3301 E. 12th Street, Suite 259, Oakland, CA 94601, where Dennis was a board member.