Obituaries

Dennis Dean Middleton, known to everyone as Denny, passed away on February 14, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on April 6, 1948, in New Ulm, Denny spent his retirement years in Independence, Wisconsin, where he enjoyed the slower pace of life and made many lifelong friends.

Denny had a distinguished career as a master technician at Oscar Mayer. His talent for mechanics extended into his personal life, where he enjoyed working on muscle cars, including an El Camino, a Pontiac LeMans, and a Spider Corvair. An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting deer and taking friends and family out on his pontoon boat.

Known as the life of the party, Denny always had a smile on his face. He was incredibly generous and always willing to help others, often starting on a friend's project before they were even awake. In his retirement, he was frequently seen on his "Gator," visiting local farmers and friends to lend a hand.

Denny was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Valeria (Albrecht) Middleton; his brothers, Donald, Gary, and Roger Middleton; his sister, Patty (Middleton) Evers; and his nephews, David and Chad Middleton. He is survived by his son, Kurt Middleton; his brother, Robert Middleton; his nieces, Dawn (Middleton) Albrecht, Angie Middleton, Heidi Weiland, and Katie Evers; and his nephews, Paul and Scott Evers, and Jay, Bruce, and Paul Middleton.

In keeping with Denny’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Instead, a celebration of life will be held at East End Bar in Independence. An announcement will be made once arrangements are finalized.

Denny was loved by many, and his presence on County Q will be deeply missed. May he rest in God's eternal peace.