Warren Eric Dennison lived a life marked by significant experiences, from military service during wartime to personal struggles, and ultimately, a battle with serious illness. A son, husband, and veteran, Warren's journey reflected the complex challenges of his generation.

Early Life and Military Service

Warren Eric Dennison, the youngest son of Bob and Dot Stancil Dennison, was born on July 21, 1951, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His youth was soon followed by a period of profound national service. In 1967, Warren joined the United States Marine Corps. After completing his basic training, he was deployed to Vietnam.

His military service was brief but impactful; he received a medical discharge in 1968 and was released from duty in California. It is believed that the profound experiences of combat and his exposure to Agent Orange during his tour in Vietnam deeply affected Warren, potentially contributing to many of the challenges he would face later in life.

Personal Challenges and Support

Upon his return from Vietnam, Warren visited his first cousin, Frank Eason, in Long Beach, California, asking to stay for a few days. Frank quickly realized that Warren was grappling with addiction issues, including alcoholism and drug problems, stemming perhaps from the horrors of war and his service experiences. Frank tried to be as supportive and accommodating as possible. Recognizing Warren's need for professional help, Frank went above and beyond, renting Warren an apartment, furnishing it with food, and providing him with money for expenses until he could find employment.

Marriages

Warren's personal life included two marriages. On March 12, 1976, he married Donna M. Richardson in Los Angeles, California. This marriage, however, was brief, concluding with their divorce in January 1977, also in Los Angeles.

Years later, on January 3, 1990, Warren married Barbara Kay Bennett in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Final Illness and Passing

In July 1991, Warren became seriously ill. He was admitted to Las Vegas University Medical Center on July 23, initially thought to be suffering from an ulcer. After a few days, he returned home with medication. However, by Labor Day, his condition worsened, and he was vomiting blood again, still suspecting it was related to an ulcer.

Warren was re-admitted to the hospital through the emergency room and assigned a surgeon. He underwent a spleen vena shunt procedure and was discharged after a few days. Unfortunately, his health problems persisted. He spent Dot's birthday on October 7 back in the hospital, continuing to experience vomiting and passing blood. Warren underwent further surgeries on October 29 and again on November 1, 1991. He spoke with Dot on November 1, but subsequent attempts by Dot to reach him were unsuccessful.

Warren Eric Dennison passed away at 2:00 PM on Monday, November 4, 1991, in Pennsylvania, at the age of 40. His death certificate confirmed the cause of death as liver and kidney failure.

His funeral service was preached by Reverend Kenneth A. B. Wells of the Glading Memorial Presbyterian Church. Warren was laid to rest with a profound tribute to his service and faith: his casket was draped with an American Flag, and he was buried beside his grandmother Dennison in Westminster Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd, Montgomery, Pennsylvania, with his nephew Eric's Bible opened to the 23rd Psalm. His dogtags and the American flag from his casket were kept by Dot as cherished mementos.

Warren Eric Dennison's life, though challenging at times, stands as a testament to the complexities faced by many veterans, and he is remembered by those who cared for him.