Dennis Hackett, 69

To the many who knew him, Dennis Hackett was larger than life. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend. Dennis was born to the late George and Phyllis Hackett (née Smart) on September 18, 1952, in Pomeroy, Ohio. He died on February 20, 2022, in Pomeroy, Ohio, at the age of 69.

The greatest source of joy in his life was undoubtedly his family. He is survived by his wife, Bette Hackett, and his five children Spencer Hackett (Kailan Prouty), Erin Nordholt (Thomas), Erin Krawsczyn (Mitchell Roush), Adam Krawsczyn (Claire), and Andi Evans (Jonathan). He is also survived by his four siblings, Rose Marie Hackett, Bill Hackett, Linda Goodwin, Melanie Franko (Robert) and sister-in-law Pamela O’Laughlin. He is survived by his beloved grandchildren, affectionately known as “The Six Pack”: Mary Grace Roush (18), Grant Roush (14), Henry Evans (8), Charlie Evans (6), AJ Krawsczyn (5), and Lena Krawsczyn (2). Although blended families are rarely so lucky, the Hackett/Krawsczyn/Roush/Evans/Nordholt family surrounded Dennis with the love and kinship of a true family regardless of last names. All of his children, biological or otherwise, loved him fiercely.

Many know that he lived nine lives by heroically surviving more than his fair share of medical conditions, but he will always be remembered for his appreciably full life. He spent his early adulthood getting paid to drive cars up and down the Pacific Coast Highway, golfing in various corners of the country, and visiting ski resorts near and far. He built a successful roofing business that served the Central Ohio region (and beyond) for nearly two decades, during which time he completed many projects that received awards and recognition. He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local #667.

His lifelong friends will remember the many years they spent together boating on the Ohio River, water skiing and celebrating life on those hot summer days. He and his four siblings remained close throughout his life, often traveling together and sharing a mutual understanding of the importance of their relationship. He and his wife, Bette, shared many memories traveling and enjoying the company of their children. He raised two wonderful children who were the greatest source of pride in his life. He is a cancer survivor, aspiring cowboy, avid sports fan, master on the grill, Buckeye fan, golfer, snow skier, water skier, coach, woodworker, handyman, entrepreneur, bourbon-drinker, big brother, little brother, Honey, Padre, Dude, DH, and DPawPaw.

He always cared for his family and their needs above his own. His bond with his children and grandchildren was something he cherished, and their love for him was a pure reflection of his character. He was a caretaker, supporter, encourager, and source of light to all who knew him. When many others would have given up, Dennis dug his heels in and never stopped fighting or trying to better himself. A man of many curiosities, Dennis had many interests–all of which he loved to share and teach to his family or anyone who would listen. There was rarely a question he didn’t know the answer to or a situation he didn’t know how to handle. He was a North Star for his family through both joyous and difficult times.

Dennis will always be remembered for his unique sense of humor, unmatched strength, boundless love, and unwavering integrity. The family invites all who knew Dennis to celebrate his life on Saturday, March 12 at 2 p.m. at Riverside Golf Course in Mason, West Virginia. In lieu of sending flowers, please remember Dennis by performing a random act of kindness.