Dennis Lester Spencer

Dennis Lester Spencer, age 91, of Waukee, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on May 21, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Dennis lived a life marked by quiet strength, steadfast faith, and deep compassion.

Born on Halloween October 31, 1933 to Nelson Carroll and Elizabeth Spencer, Dennis was one of five boys. His upbringing shaped his determination, sense of humor, and enduring belief in the importance of family. In July 1973, in the living room of their family home, Dennis made a personal covenant with Jesus Christ to be his Lord and Savior—a commitment he honored throughout his life with integrity, humility, and love.

Dennis was known for his strong work ethic, servant’s heart, and gentle spirit. He had the rare ability to fix anything, listen without judgment, and offer presence and peace when it was needed most. His legacy lives on not only in the family he loved deeply, but also in the many lives he touched through his work, church, and community.

Dennis was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served active duty for two years, followed by four years in the Army Reserves. He attended Kingsway Bible College, was a longtime member of the Gideon’s, and taught Evangelism Explosion. He traveled to the Holy Land and took a mission trip to South Africa. A man of many talents, Dennis was an auctioneer and the former owner of Spencer OK Hardware Store in Dallas Center. Dennis loved fishing trips to Bemidji, Minnesota and Canada with family and friends. Whether at work, in ministry, or with loved ones, he gave fully of himself in all things.

Professionally, Dennis worked for Gibbs Cook/Ziegler for 47 years in Fort Dodge and Des Moines, finishing his career in Urbandale before retiring in 1998. Never one to stay still for long, he continued working at Adesa for another 21 years during retirement. He and his wife Joyce also volunteered at the REACH food pantry.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Joyce; his children, Denise (Manny) Guerra of Des Moines, Dea Rae Waters of Des Moines, David (Margie) Spencer of Urbandale, and Dan (Darynda) Spencer of Macomb, MO; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his brothers, Gary (Rita) Spencer of Ankeny and Tony (Dellaine) Spencer of Panora; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Nelson Carroll Jr. and Jack Spencer.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, May 27, 2025 from 4 to 8 p.m. with family present from 6-8 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA and the funeral service on Wednesday, May 28 at 11:00 a.m. at New Hope Assembly Church, 4425 70th St. in Urbandale, IA. In keeping with his unwavering faith, the service will include a gospel message that reflects the foundation of the life he lived. A luncheon will follow, and interment will take place at a later date.

The greatest epitaph is a life well lived—and Dennis lived his with grace, courage, and love.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Exodus51 in Dallas Center through New Hope Assembly of God.

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