Dennis Lamar Waters, Sr., age 90, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Born on March 14, 1935, in Salt Lake City, Dennis lived a full and vibrant life rooted in family, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Dennis graduated from West High School in 1953 and briefly attended the University of Utah. He also served for a short time in the Utah National Guard before deciding to focus on his role as a father and provider. His career began in the food industry as a butcher at Cudahy Packing. He later transitioned to roles in Sporting Goods and Men’s Clothing at JC Penney in SLC before returning to his passion for the food industry. Dennis excelled in sales at Jordan Meat Company and later worked as a manufacturers’ representative for several local food brokers,where he formed many lifelong friendships. His dedication and skill earned him numerous awards and work trips across the United States.

Dennis was married to Marilyn (Beasley) Waters, with whom he shared four children: Gregg Waters, Dennis Waters Jr., Doug Waters, and Shannon Waters. Later in life, he married Marina (Vogel) Waters, with whom he had one son, Trent Waters. His legacy extends through his children’s families, making him a proud great-great-grandfather.

“Make sure you leave your campsite cleaner than when you arrived.”

An avid outdoorsman, Dennis found joy and peace in nature. He loved hunting fowl, deer, and elk and even traveled to New Zealand for an unforgettable hunting trip. Fishing was another passion of his,often at the family cabin near Strawberry Reservoir—where he spent countless hours casting lines into nearby streams and rivers. Dennis cherished sharing these experiences with his children, teaching them not only outdoor skills but also values such as respect for wildlife and leaving campsites cleaner than they were found.

Known for his generosity. His long career in the food industry allowed him to provide “care packages” filled with products he represented—ranging from Gatorade to Pillsbury items—which he would hand-deliver or make available for pickup at his home or workplace.

Dennis was predeceased by his parents Douglas L. Waters and Martha K. (Drechsel) Waters; his brothers Don, Jerry, and Jay; as well as his son Dennis Waters Jr. He is survived by his children Gregg Waters, Doug Waters, Shannon Waters, and Trent Waters; along with their families.

Dennis will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, love of nature, tawdry jokes and devotion to those he held dear. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held on March 21, 2026, from 12:00 AM to 02:00 AM at Broomhead Funeral Home 12600 South 2200 West. South Building