Dennis Allen McCombs

“It’s a Wonderful Life!”

Dennis Allen McCombs passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on the morning of October 1, 2024, in Racine, WI. Born in Racine to the late Margaret Leight McCombs on June 11, 1941, Dennis was one of five siblings: Kay McCombs, Patricia Iversen, William McCombs, and John McCombs. He spent all eighty-three years of his life in Racine, residing in his home on Thurston Avenue for the past fifty-two years. He was a graduate of Washington Park High School and Layton School of Art and served as a Counter Intelligence Agent for the U.S. Army from 1965-1968 and was awarded The National Defense Service Medal. He began a career in advertising and eventually started his own agency. He returned home and married the love of his life, Catherine McCombs and raised four beautiful children.

Dennis brought laughter and joy to everyday life with his signature sense of humor and quick wit. His warm smile and the twinkle in his eyes were a genuine reflection of his kind nature. He had a deep love and encyclopedic knowledge of cinema, geography and history. Dennis traveled the world yet his heart and home was always in Racine and he cherished his childhood memories and friends growing up in Rubberville.

Dennis was preceded in death by his beloved son, Matthew. Their spirited and often hilarious adventures together included attending The Cannes Film Festival and The Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain, on three separate occasions.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Catherine McCombs; his daughter, Megan (James) McCombs; his son, Ryan McCombs; and his daughter, Shana (Paul) Paiskoski. He is also lovingly remembered by his three grandchildren: Roman Piaskoski, Cooper McCombs, and Lucas McCombs and his brother, John McCombs.

Funeral services will be held at the Maresh-Meredith Funeral Home in Racine, WI, on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. A visitation will take place at 10 a.m. followed by a service and Full Military Honors at 11 a.m. A gathering will follow at the VFW at 820 Main Street.

All are invited to join us in celebrating the life of Dennis A. McCombs.

Memorial donations may be made to the Racine Heritage Museum, 701 Main St. Racine, WI 53403.