Dennis Houlihan, 70, of Freeport, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on July 11, 2025, after facing cancer with courage and determination. In his final days, he was surrounded by love and cared for with devotion by his partner, Jaye Loffgren. The two shared a joyful life filled with gardens, birdwatching, and walks to the waterfall in Krape Park.

Born January 19, 1955, Dennis lived a life full of curiosity, creativity, and reinvention. As a kid, he rode a unicycle and practiced gymnastics. Later, he became "Yodi the Clown,". He co-owned a comic book shop, laid carpet, wove baskets with Penobscot tribe members, and taught himself web design, soap making, fiber arts, and stained glass. If Dennis got curious about something, he dove in.
He was funny, sharp, and principled, with strong beliefs in justice and public health, due to Covid.

Dennis was a devoted caretaker to his late wife, Molly, a loving stepdad to Liz (Brian) Willham, Katie Denniston, and Brandon Moore, and a proud grandpa to Callie, Grace, and Beatrix. He showed up, stayed present, and gave his whole heart.

He is survived by siblings John Houlihan, Eileen (Michael) Kelley, and Cathy (Bo) Houlihan-Norris, and many beloved family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hap and Harriet Houlihan, and sister-in-law, Beth Houlihan.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Freeport Health Network and FHN Hospice for their personalized care.

A celebration of life open house will be held on Sunday, August 31, 2025, from 1:00–4:00 p.m., with remarks at 2:00, on the second floor of the Veteran's Coliseum in Marshalltown, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, please consider acts of peaceful protest or donations to Resist.org in his honor.
Dennis lived the way he left this world—on his own terms, surrounded by love. He was truly one of a kind.