Dennis was Trina's beloved uncle & Diane's incredible brother (both are heavily involved with the horse rescue) , a VERY GOOD MAN, spent summers and alot of time with Trina & David's son, sadly Dennis passed away just before Matthew's 17th birthday, he is greatly missed by Matthew and all, always writing and sending cards..... They had planned a trip to DC for seeing the memorials the summer of 2023.
Dennis's memory lives on with his huge contribution to the Rescued Horses when he passed away. His only sister received inheritance and she chose to donate it to this NON-Profit rescue to help feed the horses in dire need currently at the rescue.
With an over abundance of horses in need this winter (2023) this hay contribution was truly needed!
Dennis has ALWAYS helped the less fortunate and I know he is in Heaven looking down on ALL those he has helped, myself included. God Speed Uncle Dennis, you are always in our hearts!
(The local newspaper obituary)
January 4, 1945 — July 17, 2022
Dennis Allen Shelly passed away quietly in his sleep July 17, 2022 of natural causes. Belfair, Wash., is where he did most of his growing up and finished high school at North Mason. Before moving to California, Dennis left his mark at North Mason. Four-year letterman (basketball, track, tennis), honor roll, Honor Society, student body president and some band thrown in for good measure. He also attended as many class reunions as he could until the COVID pandemic put a lid on most gatherings.
In California, the day after graduating from UCSB with a degree in physical education, he received a greeting letter from Uncle Sam, inviting him to the world of OD Green. After spending most of his uniformed time in Panama, he returned to Goleta where he resumed his activities as a foster parent – something he had started during his college years. Around 1973, he opened his bicycle business in Goleta which he operated for nearly 30 years, while continuing with his fostering/mentoring activities.
Around 2012, Dennis moved to Whidbey Island, Wash., to enjoy the greenery and retirement. Dennis is survived by his two brothers, Brian and Gary Shelly, and a sister, Diane Starker. R.I.P. Dennis.
IN LOVING MEMORY of Shelly Hoffman October 11, 1955 - March 30, 2020
Shelly is why this rescue came together...in the beginning... a single wild horse a couple years ago...Every horse, every bale of hay, every single thing will always remind us of her wonderful kindness...Shelly was of few words unless asked and then she always shared all she knew. If she didn't know the answer, she figured it wasn't a necessity to know. Shelly always gave all she had in heart and soul. She was loving and caring, honest and truthful. She is what we will always aspire to be.