Dennis Bracken

Dennis Bracken passed away peacefully on February 17, 2021, with his wife Linda at his side.

Dennis dedicated his life to serving and protecting others, his family, friends, community, and country. 

The eldest son of William and Inez Bracken, Dennis was born in Brooklyn, New York on October 12th, 1949. A year later, his brother Stuart joined the family. As the son of an Airforce Tech Sergeant, Dennis spent his childhood living on several bases throughout the United States and spent his middle school years at Yokota Air Force Base in Japan. His family eventually settled in Tacoma, Washington where Dennis graduated from Franklin Pierce High School in 1968.

At a time when his country was at war, Dennis courageously joined the Marine Corps and served in Vietnam as a Corporal for the 2nd Battalion 26 Marines 1968/1969. While serving, Dennis earned accommodations for his dedication and bravery, including the Silver Star and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. Although his service represents a short time of his 71 years, this was a defining experience for Dennis, and he was a proud Vietnam Veteran and Marine for the remainder of his life. 

Returning home to Washington, Dennis completed his education by earning his Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Puget Sound. From a young age, Dennis knew he wanted a career in law enforcement and joined the Long Beach Police Department in 1977. He had a diverse career and served as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, S.W.A.T Officer, and Detective. He earned a Purple Heart for an injury sustained in the line of duty that resulted in his retirement. For the rest of his life, Dennis would continue to be a strong supporter of the men and women in blue.

In Long Beach, Dennis met the love of his life, Linda, and they were married after a short courtship. Visiting Big Bear often on their Harley, and looking for a new adventure, Dennis, Linda, and his son Brian made Big Bear their home. They continued to grow their family, welcoming two daughters, Chelsea and Hayley. Dennis was a devoted family man and often expressed to others the pride and joy his family brought him. 

In 1990 Dennis began his second career as a Realtor. In his thirty years of business, he received numerous awards for his achievements, including being nominated Realtor of the Year in 2002. He continued his dedication to the community by serving as President of the Board of Realtors and as a Regional Chairman for California Association of Realtors. Dennis took pleasure in the people that he met and his clients often became friends. 

Of all of his community involvement, including Dawnbusters Rotary, Marine League, and the Elks. Dennis was most passionate about the time he spent as a defensive coach for Big Bear High School football. As a coach, he instilled the importance of hard work on and off the field. He not only developed his players’ athletic talents, but he also encouraged them to be their best in all aspects of their lives.   

Along with his enthusiasm for football, Dennis had many interests. He had a love of anything with a motor and was always smiling when riding his Harley, boating on the lake, and tinkering with his Corvette.

Dennis was a man with an extraordinary ability to have a significant impact on everyone he met. He was known as someone who would never pass a person in need and would always lend a helping hand or a kind ear. He touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Linda, of 33 years and his three children, Brian, Chelsea, and Hayley (Dagoberto). Also, his mother, Inez, and his brother Stuart (Athena).  Additionally, he leaves behind by many nieces and nephews. 

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to Vietnam Veterans of America.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dennis Bracken, please visit our floral store.