Dennis was born and raised in the Salem/ Keizer area, attending McNary High School in Keizer. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1972-1975, during the Vietnam War. He returned home and 1976 married Angela Dunlap. They had three children, Darci, Trevor and Tyler.
Dennis worked as a commercial plumber with Local 290. He worked on many commercial buildings in the Portland/Salem area, including the rose Garden, Intel, Nike, Portland Airport, Oregon Public Training Academy, and many hospitals in the area.
Dennis enjoyed hunting with his friends, but he truly lived for fishing. He enjoyed many fishing trips to various rivers and lakes in Oregon, the Oregon Coast, Mexico, Hawaii, and Florida.
Dennis married Debra Bock in 1992. They spent many years traveling, fishing, and remodeling homes. Dennis was known for his beautiful green yard, spending many hours tending to it. He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and many friends.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Debra Smyres, his daughter Darci (Ben), Granddaughters Hailey and Macie, brother Doug (Marilyn) Smyres, Aunt Donna (Gerald) and a niece and many nephews.
Dennis was preceded in death by his sons, Trevor Smyres and Tyler Smyres. His parents Rachel and Ernest Smyers and brother Steve Smyres.