DENNIS, Neil Edward (Catfish)

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Saturday, August 18, 2012 Neil Edward Dennis, 62, of Bisbee, Ariz., lost his battle with liver cancer on Aug. 5, 2012. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Phoenix, Ariz., in 1950 and was raised in both Phoenix and Prescott, Ariz. He is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Susan Luoma of Bisbee. He is also survived by his son Andrew Dennis of Mobile, Ala.; daughter LaLanya (Andy) Hudson of Dewey; and daughter Rainy (Terry) Couchenour of Bisbee. His grandchildren include Tanner, Cody, Samantha and Shealyn Hudson and Healey and Natalie Couchenour, and great-grandson Lane Hudson. His brothers are David (Dolores) Dennis of Prescott and Steven (Sheila) Dennis of Prescott. His sisters are Judith (Jim) Greathouse of Phoenix and Leslie Dennis of Prescott. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bethel and Bobbie Dennis, sister Barbara Sypherd and nephew Todd Dennis. Neil was employed by Asarco Ray Copper Mine in Kearny, Ariz., in shovels and drills as a heavy machinery mechanic. Throughout his life, he worked with mining equipment all over the southwest, having worked for Komatsu and P&H Mine Pro. During his working days, he acquired the name of "Catfish." He used his skills and talents to help neighbors and friends because that is what a good person does, with no thought for himself. He was bigger than life with a voice that filled a room. He was a natural role model and mentor to people in his workplace and a protector of his family and friends. He loved to make us smile and did so every day of his life. A proud grandpa, he was cherished by his grandchildren and will live on in their hearts and memories. He would drive for miles to see a new grandbaby then hold that sleeping grandbaby for hours. Neil lived loud and large with a dramatic spirit that amazed, amused and sometimes exhausted us. He loved his family with a fierce and loyal spirit that we felt every day. Neil was an active member of the United Steel Workers Union #915. He was also a member of the Kearny Elks Club. He loved to golf and did so every chance he got. Target practicing, guitar playing and camping were his passions. By Neil's request, he will be cremated with no services. Many thanks to the wonderful people at Casa de la Paz Hospice and to Steve and Sheila Dennis for all their help during this difficult time. Rest peacefully, dear Catfish. Your work here is done. Arrangements by Alex Espinosa Funeral Home in Bisbee. Information provided by survivors.