Dennis Morse McKern, age 82, a lifelong resident of the Rice and Kettle Falls, WA communities, passed away on Sept. 22, 2026 in Spokane, WA. Dennis was born on August 28, 1944, the son of Dee Lightfoot and Ina Irene (Koski) McKern.

Dennis was raised on the family farm in Rice where he began school in the Rice Community School House. He then attended high school in Kettle Falls and graduated with the class of 1962. Dennis continued his education in Pullman where he attended Washington State University. He completed his education with a bachelor’s degree and returned to Kettle Falls.

On September 16, 1967, he and Patricia Ann Kent exchanged vows and began a journey of 56 years in marriage. They began a family and Dennis worked in the local lumber industry before joining the family business as an insurance agent. At different points each of his children worked with him in the insurance business. Dennis retired in 2012 to spend more time in care of his family and watch his grandchildren grow.

He and Patty were active in the Kettle River Grange for many years. Dennis enjoyed acting in the annual plays, especially when he played the villain and volunteering at events like the turkey shoots. He was always steady in character and willing to offer a hand whenever he was able. He loved the outdoors and spent many hours camping, huckleberry picking, hunting and fishing, especially with a fly rod in hand. He had a great sense of humor and his dry wit was offered with a subtle grin and good heart. Dennis had a great love of his family and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Once he retired he enjoyed coffee almost every morning with his good friend Dave Brown where they told bad jokes, talked about family, and the state of the world.

Dennis was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia “Patty” McKern on March 15, 2024, his parents, Dee and Ina McKern; and siblings, Dan Reeder, Patricia Reeder-Clemons, Tom McKern, and twin sister Diane McKern-Showalter.

Dennis is survived by his children: Rod McKern (Ann) of Kettle Falls, WA, Katie Paulson (Rob) of Clarkston, WA, Anna Vining (Josh) of Kettle Falls, WA; grandchildren, Dalton McKern (Bre), Kate Gumm (Carson), Shelby Hawes (D.J.), Garrett Paulson (Hannah), Blake Vining (Brooke), Dylan Vining (Sarah); Great-grandchildren, Aubree, Mason, Andrew, Videtta, Viktor, Arlo, Blakely, Grey, Lane, and Bellamy; numerous nieces and nephews and a host of extended family and friends.

A family gathering was held in honor of Dennis. Memorial contributions may be given to the Kettle River Grange. Please visit the online memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.