Dennis E. Vittetoe

Dennis Earl “Willis” Vittetoe, 70, of Pocatello, passed away Thursday, May 24, 2012 at the Elegant Living Care Center.

Dennis was born October 17, 1941 in Twin Falls, Idaho. He was the son of Aubrey and Pauline Vittetoe. He grew up in Murtaugh, Idaho and graduated from Murtaugh High School in May 1959. He graduated from Idaho State University with a Certificate in Electricity in 1960, a Certificate in Industrial electricity and Instrumentation in 1961, and a Certificate in Electronics in 1964. He married his high school sweetheart, Brenda Hogue on September 8, 1963 in Twin Fall, Idaho, they were married 49 years. They have one son, Brad and two grandchildren, Talli and Sadie.

After his completion of college, Dennis and Brenda moved to Las Vegas, NV. Dennis was employed by EG&G from 1964 to 1976 where he was an electronics technician. While in Las Vegas, their son Brad was born. Dennis loved to play baseball, camp, bowl, ride motorcycles, travel, and spend time with friends.
Dennis was offered a position to teach in the electronics department at the College of Technology at Idaho State University in 1976. He taught there for over 28 years, and has received many awards, including Professional Achievement Award, Master Instructor, Master Instructor Emeritus, and he was named Outstanding Professor by a student. He was instrumental in procuring equipment and commissioning television studios at Idaho State University, Bear Lake High School, and Franklin Junior High School. Dennis excelled in his dedication and assistance to the students, helping them to understand themselves and to find self-worth and motivation.

Dennis will be remembered as a great husband, dad, and grandpa. His sayings or “Dennisisms” were enjoyed by all who heard them. He enjoyed sports, especially basketball, football, fishing (even though he usually caught the minnows) and hunting with his son. He loved classic cars and was very active in the Reflections Car Club where he was both a member and officer, attending car shows, and working on his 1968 Camaro and his 1963 Nova SS Convertible. He loved the take the RV and go camping and vacationing with his friends and family.

Even in declining health the past year, he was always upbeat and never complained. He was an inspiration, to all who knew and loved him. He will be greatly missed.

Please take a moment to share your condolences, a short story, or photos of Dennis.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held June 2, 2012. You may access all the details in the "Service Schedule" tab.