Dennis Espeland

Dennis Espeland was born on April 26, 1944 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and passed away December 7, 2022 at the hospital in Bandon, OR. Dennis was raised on a farm just north of Canton and attended Sunnyside #5 country school. He graduated from Canton High School and continued his education at Augustana College in Sioux Falls. He later transferred to Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa and graduated with a degree in music education. Dennis received his Master of Arts degree in Music at the University of Iowa.

He taught music at Coralville, Underwood, and Akron, all in Iowa. He moved to Canton and taught piano and organ to many students. Dennis also played organ and piano for many churches. He later moved to Portland, Oregon where he continued his love of music by teaching private piano and organ, singing in the Portland Opera, and directing a German mixed choir. Dennis loved to travel and made many trips to Europe and many locations in the USA. He was passionate about certain issues in local and national affairs and would occasionally join a protest to voice his freedom of speech. He loved animals and had either a pet dog or cat most of his life. After Dennis retired he moved to his favorite getaway in Port Orford, Oregon. He was very involved in St. Christopher Episcopal Church and loved the parish. Upon his death he donated his tissues and organs to help others. A Celebration of life was held on December 9th at St. Christopher Episcopal Church in Port Orford.

Grateful for sharing his life were his partner Bruce Levy, siblings Steve (Charlotte) Espeland, Jim (Mui) Espeland, Karen Espeland, and Sharon (Virgil) Carter, brother-in-law William Tipple and numerous nieces and nephews. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents John and Olga Espeland and sister Diane Tipple.

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