Dennis William Chezick, a devoted family man and pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on Aug. 16, 2026, at his home in Arroyo Grande, California, after a long-term illness. Born on Oct. 6, 1940, Dennis lived a life defined by service, integrity, and an unwavering love for the people around him. He was surrounded in his final moments by his family and his beloved wife of nearly 65 years, Andrea Mary Chezick, whose partnership with him was the heart of his world and beloved dog Elliot.
Dennis is survived by his four daughters — Tamara, Stacie, Erin, Shannon and her husband David Valdivia — who were the pride of his life. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and four nieces, each of whom carry forward his warmth, humor, and deep sense of family. To Dennis, family was his greatest accomplishment, and he cherished every gathering, celebration, and moment spent together.
A man of many passions, Dennis loved golf, deep sea fishing, Bass Lake, and any occasion that brought loved ones together. He had a well known sweet tooth and never passed up a good dessert shared among friends.
Dennis attended St. Frances High School and later Cal Polytechnic State University, building the foundation for a remarkable career rooted in leadership and community involvement. For 50 years, he served the Central Valley as the Owner and Broker of Chezick Realty (1963-2013), earning respect for his professionalism and genuine care for the people he served.
His dedication to community was unmatched. In 2005, Dennis received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Madera Chamber of Commerce, recognizing decades of service. He served as:
• Chair of the Board of Directors for the Madera Chamber of Commerce
• Member of the Madera Elk’s Lodge
• Board member for Madera Mosquito Abatement
• Board member of the Madera Economic Development Commission
• Lifetime member of the Madera County Fair Board
• Board member for the Central California Women’s Facility, Chowchilla
• Board member of the Bass Lake Homeowners Association
• Volunteer with the Bass Lake Volunteer Fire Department
Dennis also proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, aboard the USS Leonard F. Mason, carrying with him the discipline, camaraderie, and patriotism that shaped his life.
The family extends a heartfelt thank you to his caregivers, Robert and Naomi, for their compassion, dedication, and friendship over the past few years.
In honor of Dennis’s lifelong love for agriculture programs and his commitment to helping others, the family requests that remembrances be made to Ruby’s Purpose Animal Rescue and Sanctuary (Equine Rescue) at rubyspurpose.com/donate, or to the American Cancer Society.
Dennis’s life was one of generosity, devotion, and quiet strength. His impact on his family, his community, and everyone fortunate enough to know him will endure for generations.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Lillian Chezick; his in-laws, Richard and Grace Ochs; his sisters, Jermaine Lundgren and Jacqueline Voorhees and her husband Robert Voorhees; his son-in-law Michael Hill; and his nephews Gunnar and Sean Voorhees.
Services:
Funeral Service — 1 p.m., Monday, August 31, 2026, at Jay Chapel in Madera, California.
Private Interment — Arbor Vitae Cemetery Madera, California.