ROGERS — Dennis James Groff,

age 71, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2021, at Circle of Life Hospice in Bentonville. He was born on Sept. 18, 1949, in San Francisco, Calif., to George and Charlene (Shear) Groff.

He is preceded in death by both parents and his two youngest sisters, Virginia Long and Georgia MacIntyre.

Dennis was a Vietnam veteran, passionately patriotic, and held a critical eye on politics. He worked as a radar/radio technician at RCA and retired from Litton Industries in Southern California. He followed NASCAR and cheered for the 24 car. He also enjoyed watching college baseball, football and was a Razorback fan. He was an active member of VFW Post 3031 in Rogers and held multiple positions throughout the years. He loved Christmas and July 4th; he always made sure the children at the post had a memorable experience.

He is survived by his longtime companion, Mary Downey; his brother, David Groff; and sister, Suzette Mellies; two sons, Dennis James Groff Jr. and George Edward Groff; and his daughter, Denise Michele Gilbertson. He has six grandchildren: Travis, Dylan, Tiffany, Donnie, Cassandra and Evan.

A ‘Celebration of His Life’ will be held at 2 p.m. on Sept. 18, 2021, at VFW Post 3031, 11160 N. Old Wire Road, in Rogers, Ark. His final resting place will be at the Fayetteville National Cemetery Fayetteville, Ark.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to VFW Post 3031, with “In honor of DJ”, in the memo line to, P.O. Box 1383, Rogers, Ark., 72757.

Cremation and arrangements under the care of Benton County Funeral Home in Rogers. To place an online tribute, visit www.bentoncountyfuneralhome.com .