Dennis Darl Little, youngest son of Darl and Mary Little, was born on March 21, 1955, and on April 2, 2024, lost his battle with chromophobe renal carcinoma. A cancer he had been battling since 2014, far exceeding the average five-year life expectancy. A privilege granted to his family by the great doctors and medical staff from Stanford Medical Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and his general practitioner Dr. Nahera Adams.

Dennis left behind a legacy of love and laughter. He was the beloved husband of Kelly Speckens Little, her best friend and partner in crime for 45 amazing years, married 42. Their journey began at The Barnyard restaurant in 1978, and from that day forward, they tackled life's challenges hand in hand, creating countless memories along the way.

Prior to marriage, Dennis attended Hughson Schools, showcasing remarkable talents across various sports. He left an incredible mark on the history of Hughson High by setting multiple records until his graduation in 1973. His athletic excellence persisted at Modesto Junior College (MJC), where he was honored as Athlete of the Year in 1975. Particularly noteworthy was Dennis's achievement of holding the Track & Field high jump record at an impressive 6'8", a record that has only recently been beaten.

A diligent farmer, for over fifty years, and devoted family man, Dennis epitomized selflessness and resilience. He tackled every challenge with unwavering resolve, never faltering in his dedication to his loved ones. His boundless love and support enriched the lives of all who knew him.

Dennis leaves behind a legacy of love and pride in his two sons, Jon “Colin” Little (eldest) and Jeremy “Taylor” Little (youngest), and his three grandsons: Evatt, Jace, and Grant Little. His sons revered him as their greatest role model, admiring his strength, kindness, and unwavering commitment to family and Gratton School community. Active in his children's lives, Dennis embraced fatherhood wholeheartedly, coaching their sports teams and taking them to various school activities without complaint.

Dennis was a beacon of kindness, always caring for others before himself. He was a person who brought happiness into every room he entered, his subtle humor and warm personality left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Dennis's departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of many, especially among his close-knit circle of friends, his loyal band of brothers: Doug Biggs, Randy Bennett, Larry Fontana, Greg Bennett, and Dave Skidmore (who now welcomes him in heaven). He will also be deeply missed by "The '55 models," his cherished cousins Alan Little and Jerry Riggs and be met in heaven by his lifelong Mike Uber.

As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary man, we also celebrate his remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example for generations to come. In Dennis’s memory, let us continue his legacy of hard work, patience, thoughtfulness, and unwavering positivity. Though he may be gone, Dennis's spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His kindness, humor and generosity will be remembered and cherished forever. Dennis may have been "Little" in name, but his impact on the world was anything but. Rest easy, Dennis, knowing that your legacy will never be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace.

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