Dennis Niehans

Dennis Michael Niehans passed away in the comfort of his family on March 9, 2023, at the age of 75. He was born in Vienna, Austria, to Walter and Roslyn Hayes. 

Walter was MIA in Korea in 1952. A new family was created when Roslyn met and married Tut Niehans. Raised in Southern California, Dennis attended Catholic school through high school and earned an Associate Degree from Mt. San Antonio College, Walnut, CA.

A blind date lead to a 54 year marriage to Susan (Kolenda). They moved to Pocatello in 1972 and soon welcomed Jennifer and a few years later David. Dennis was an outstanding father and proud of his children and their accomplishments. He had a special relationship with his grandson Alex. Our family enjoyed many years of camping, waterskiing, dirt bike riding and multiple activities in the company of family and lifelong friends.

Dennis worked in the heavy construction and mining equipment industry at Lake Shore Equipment, D&J Diesel/Central Equipment, and Bannock County Road and Bridge Department retiring in 2013.

A devout Catholic, Dennis served on the board of St. Vincent De Paul Thrift Store and helped facilitate the purchase of the present store location. In service to others, he volunteered with the weekly food distribution. He enjoyed participating in bible study groups.

With his waterski tucked under his arm, Dennis was first in line for a 9:00 AM ski on Stanley Lake and impressed everyone with his slalom finesse. He succeeded in growing trees on the family property outside of Pocatello. Over the years Dennis had the companionship of three beloved dogs. Dennis collected license plates and antiques. He enjoyed travel throughout the US and Canada, tours of historic homes & buildings, and a number of cruises. He played pickleball with a special group of friends. Paired with his outgoing personality, Dennis was known for his genuine kindness and instant smile. It could be said Dennis never met a stranger.

Our family has benefited greatly from the kindness and generosity of Dennis' network of friends and former work associates. 

We wish to thank his team from Symbii Home Health and Hospice, caregivers from Friends and Family Home Care and Dr. Jordan Bailey.

Dennis is survived by his wife, Susan; daughter, Jennifer Wilhelm (Chris); son, David; grandson, Alex Wilhelm; brothers, Dennis L. Niehans (Kit) and Brent Niehans (Julie); and sister-in-law, Arlene Washington (John).

A Memorial Mass will be held on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 1 pm at St. Joseph's Chapel, 439 N. Hayes Avenue, Pocatello, with a Celebration of Life that evening from 5:30-7:30 pm at Colonial Chapel, 2005 S. 4th Ave. Pocatello.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family under the "Tribute Wall" tab above.