Dennis and I were best friends. Our families shared Thanksgiving for more than thirty years, around the same table, with the same stories, and always with his famous ‘proprietary’ sausage dressing. It was his pride and his gift, and it never failed to make the day feel complete. We traveled to Oceanside together, and in the midst of busy lives, we would still find time to meet for breakfast now and then, just to talk and be together. These were simple moments, but they were the ones that mattered. Even now, five years after his passing, those memories remain warm and close. Friendship like that doesn’t fade. It stays, quietly, like a presence that never really leaves.

Today’s your birthday, Dennis. I still catch myself thinking about what we’d be doing if you were here. Maybe laughing over breakfast, teasing each other like we always did, or sitting quietly with coffee laced with something substantial,  because words were never required between us. You were more than my best friend. You were my brother in every way that mattered. I miss your laugh, your way of making hard days lighter, and how you always seemed to know what I needed before I said a word.

I carry you with me in the little moments when I notice something you’d have found hilarious. I hope you somehow know that you’re still a part of my life, still shaping me. Happy birthday, my friend. You’re never forgotten.

I am so sorry to hear of Dennis’s passing.  I work for him many, many years ago at Bone & Joint Physical Therapy as an aide.  I always enjoyed working with him.

God Bless,

Cindy Mrva

Today, on what would have been your birthday, I'm filled with a mix of emotions—fond memories, deep gratitude, and a profound sense of loss. You were more than a friend to me; you were a brother, a confidant, and a constant source of wisdom and laughter. I still remember the many Thanksgiving days we spent talking about everything under the sun, dreaming big, and planning adventures we never got to. Your unwavering support and infectious enthusiasm made even the most challenging days brighter.

You had a way of making everyone around you feel special, and your kindness knew no bounds. Whether through your gentle words of encouragement or your selfless acts of generosity, you touched the lives of so many people, including mine. Your impact on this world is immeasurable, and though you're no longer with us, your spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved you.

On your birthday, I celebrate the incredible person you were and the beautiful legacy you left behind. I find comfort in the memories we shared.  While I miss you more than words can express, I know you are watching over us, and I always carry your memory with me. Happy birthday, my dear friend. You are forever loved and never forgotten.

When all is said and done, a birthday is a celebration of life. And yet today, the day of Dennis’s birth, I lament on the fact that he is not here to celebrate. I remember that on the occasion of his birthday years ago, Dennis would celebrate with humility and love for all those he cared for. Toasting with Crown Royal would happen and congratulations all around. I raise a toast of Crown Royal to you Dennis. I’m miss you. Happy birthday my friend.

I met Dennis after a co-worker recommended him to me as someone that was very good at fixing back problems. He was excellent at diagnosing where your problems were. He found I had a tilted pelvis (up high on one side and tiled forward), one leg shorter than the other, short of no lumbar curve in my back which was causing pressure on my sciatica and causing pain.   In 3 months going 3 times a week, I was brand new again. His special formula of combining regular physcial therapy with soft stretch manipulation and applying a bit of pressure on certain areas of the body without experiencing pain or taking meds was amazing . I remember going to a room with the lights low, laying on a warm pad with electrodes pulsating while looking at Dennis's calming photos almost putting me asleep, then off for a luxurious manual massage that losens you up because next you move onto Dennis where he work his magic while kidding around to keep you distracted and relaxed for a good 30 mins.  You got the full treatment.  I have referred many people to him over the years with similar problems. In fact, that was what I was doing when I was surprised to learn of his untimely passing. I am truly sorry for your loss. I had read he had retired or semi and turned the business over to his son now, but now sadly I find the doors have been closed. My hope is it's only temporary and that Dennis's approach to therapy will not be forever lost, but passed on and continued on for generations to come. He helped so many people with his special approach to therapy and we will always be grateful for the pain he spared us and the quality of life we regained! Rest in Peace Dennis! Your old patient Darlene Demarest

We are shocked and saddened to hear of Dennis' death. He was a dear person, fun, encouraging and positive. He cared for my husband and for myself after knee replacement. He always joked and spoke lovingly of his family, the wedding in the Czech Republic and his adored grandaughters. We miss him.

I miss you Uncle Dennis. Trips to AZ are not the same not getting to share laughs and jokes with you. Happy 69th birthday. We love you. 

I was very sad to learn of Dennis’s passing. We worked together at Wilford Hall Medical Center in 1971 and 1972.  And he was my roommate in the dorm. He was transferred to an airbase in Guam and I went to USAF Biomedical repair school so we lost track of each other after that. I am glad to know he had a wonderful life and family. I am  very sorry we never had the chance to reconnect. I have great memories of our car trip back to Connecticut on our first leave.  And our trips down to Padre Island, Texas. Please know that I have thought of Dennis many times over the last 50 years. And will always remember him. He was a great friend. 

Dennis helped me with my back problems. His staff was amazing and he really knew his stuff!! He took care of my mom several times as well. I still have my Suck It Up University t-shirt. Mom always joked that she had gone back for a Master's degree and a PHD from Dennis. He helped heal and strengthen others. I thank God for him. I don't know who I would go to now for back pain. Dennis will be a tough act to follow! To the family and other friends, I'm so sorry for your loss! Hugs your way! Thanks for sharing Dennis with us all over the years! 

On behalf of Kathy, Justin, Ryan, Cassidy, Kristina, Brooklyn, Harper, Tenley, Winston and Marty, myself and our son Greg, I wish to express a very special thank you to all who came out to attend the Celebration of Life for my dear brother Dennis. It was so nice to hear stories of how Dennis touched your lives. I was overwhelmed with emotion to see former patients who came to remember Den and express their appreciation for his unique commitment to his profession and the compassion and dedication to getting them better. Dennis touched many peoples lives and his memory will live on in all our hearts❤️❤️🥰
Love you always brother. Jeanne

Uncle Dennis was the man. Always cracking jokes at the best times able to make any dull moment bright. He could bring you to tears with his sarcastic comments and ridiculous stories. Even as a child when I'd walk into my grandmother's house for a family reunion and see Uncle Dennis there, I'd instantly smile knowing that it was going to be a good time full of laughs. I'll always remember a few years ago when I was driving with him and out of nowhere he influenced me change my life completely, because "why not?". Of course he was right, "why not?"

He will, without doubt, of course, be remembered most as an exemplary model of responsibility to traffic laws. May you drive like a bat out of hell in heaven Uncle Dennis, I'll miss you.

The time I spent with him, I could see the humor and joy that made you into the Man you are today. We've loved being your friend through the years and we want to make this donation to honor him.

Dennis was a second father to me and was always there for me to vent or just discuss life. From talking about sports, school, life in general to trying to collect my babysitting money ( somehow Dennis always thought he already paid me) he would always take the time to just listen. He was such a caring and thoughtful person and i can remember one Christmas Eve that he and Kathy were over. I could not fall asleep for the excitement of the next morning had taken over. Dennis came in and talked to me about river rafting and the rapids and the soothing sound of the river. Next thing I know i was sound asleep. I was so happy to have gone on two Colorado River trips with him. Getting the job of waking him up after Margarita night was something I will never forget as well. I can go on and on about Dennis. I miss him tremendously and am so sad I’ll never get to just sit down and shoot the shit with him again. I can say that I am so lucky to have had the times we had and will treasure those forever.Love you Dennis, you will forever be in my heart.

Love,

Drew

A bunch of us were caravaning down to Rocky Point One Memorial Weekend years ago and when we got there Dennis passed all of us up and did a donut in front of us (he wanted to be first). Little did he know he did it right in front of a police station. We all went on to our site but Dennis didn’t show up.  Eldon went looking for him and found him at the police station! Fun weekend! We love you Dennis!  Bob & Peggy Watson

Rest in Peace Dennis.

Justin, I couldn't believe it when I read the obituary yesterday. Dennis? No way. I was sure there was a mistake. I ache for all of you.
Dennis was many things, the most notable was he was a good human being. As a physical therapist he got me through surgeries and injuries over the last 15 yrs. I never left the office without laughing. Sometimes right out loud! I loved that man. But Dennis wasn't defined by being a physical therapist. He was defined by being a good man who loved his family. He had a strong faith, perhaps that's what gave him his strength. Grieve. Laugh. Weep. All are the struggles that will help you and your family close that grief stricken circle. Thinking of you,
Marti

Just an all around nice guy- had many get togethers as boys grew up together and he was always the life of the party. According to my husband he was the only one that could make potato salad like us!!! Will be missed very much

I was so saddened to read yesterday that Dennis passed away. He was a great physical therapist, and so darn funny. I loved his staff and the way I was always so welcomed. He talked so fondly of his wife, children, and grandchildren. I remember that I was surprised when we spoke of dying, he said he wasn't afraid of death and he was so grateful for the life he had. It ended way too soon. He was a master healer, and so enjoyable as a person. My thoughts are with his entire family, staff, and patients. He will be missed.

Denny was a miracle worker! He kept me upright and ambulatory for the past dozen years or more! I loved his wicked sense of humor and we shared many stories. Rest in peace, my dear friend.

Dennis "fixed" me several times. It's not easy to heal your neck, back, shoulder, etc., when you are laughing at his antics. He personally got me through the Obama years without my arrest for civil disorder. I adored him for his healing spirit and hands but most of all for his unabashed zest for life and liberty and his naughty sense of humor and fun. He will be missed. Condolences to Justin and Ryan, Katherine and the rest of his family.

I had the privilege of working for Dennis, and then later, being treated by him. I always left Dennis’ office in a better space: physically, because of the incredible work he did; emotionally because of his willingness to share his current life/family happenings which consistently fostered laughter and good discussions; and spiritually, because of his caring, generous, and compassionate soul. I am profoundly saddened with the news of Dennis’ passing; thoughts and prayers are now a constant for his wonderful family.

I was so very sorry and shocked to learn of the death of Dennis St. James. I had been a patient of Dennis several times with different ailments. He always helped me physically and emotionally. It was always a pleasure to visit with Dennis. We were both Air Force Veterans and talked a lot of our experiences. I always walked out of Dennis office with a smile. I was a patient of his son, Dr. Justin. He was always a true professional. I miss their practice. I even miss seeing one of Dennis pride and joy, his granddaughter, Harper. Dennis had a very professional practice with true professional working for him. God bless Dennis and his entire extended family. Dr. Pilon