We are saddened to share news of the sudden passing of Bryan Dennison, father of Denver Mountain Parks Cultural Resources Administrator, Shannon Dennison.
Shannon shared with us that her father’s love of Denver and Colorado’s mountains inspired her career in every way, and that he was especially proud of her work with Denver Mountain Parks.
Throughout her childhood, Bryan took Shannon on adventures throughout Colorado and the American West, passing on his love of history, National Parks, and the Rocky Mountains. As an adult, Shannon made this into her career, and Bryan delighted in visiting her and sharing stories about her work in history and archaeology.
Shannon took the helm of Denver Mountain Park’s Buffalo Bill Museum and Mount Morrison CCC Camp and historic collections – in addition to administering education and outreach throughout the mountain parks – in January 2018, following her career in historic preservation and cultural resources with the National Park Service.
With the birth of his grandson Porter Dennison, Bryan took on a new and cherished role as grandpa. When Shannon returned to work after maternity leave, Bryan cared for Porter full time and they formed an extremely close bond. Porter remained the light of his life to the end.
Shannon has asked that donations in her father’s memory be made to the Denver Mountain Parks Foundation. Donations can be made online via PayPal, ColoradoGives.org, or the Denver Foundation at mountainparksfoundation.org/how-to-contribute/.
Gifts made through Colorado Gives or The Denver Foundation will allow you to specify your gift in honor of Bryan, and if desired you can have a letter of condolence sent to Shannon via the Buffalo Bill Museum at 987 1/2 Lookout Mountain Road, Golden, CO 80401.
The foundation is honored to be recognized in the celebration of Bryan’s life, and we’re incredibly thankful that his love of the outdoors brought Shannon to a leadership role caring for Denver Mountain Parks’ priceless resources.
Services will be held at the Olinger Crown Hill Pavilion of Reflection Sunday, July 7 at 9:30am. Read Bryan’s full obituary and view service details at: https://bit.ly/30fwzxk.