Richard Ellsworth "Denny" Dennis, 83 of Bethlehem, formerly of Easton passed away Feb. 14, 2022 at St. Luke's Hospital of complications from COVID-19. Born April 4, 1938 in Easton, he was a son of the late Caroline M. (Kreps) and Arlington Duane Dennis. He was a 1956 graduate of Easton High School where he was a member of the marching band. Enlisting in the US Marine Corps upon graduation, he transferred to the Army before taking over the family business, Dennis Tire Service upon his father's passing. He then worked for Lehigh Valley Railroad which started his passion for model trains. In 1971 he purchased a small convenience store in Easton that he named Penny's Corner Store in honor of his wife, owning it for more than 20 years before retiring. He was a lifelong member of Dallas Lodge #152, F&AM (now Easton Lodge) and he was a Shriner.

  He is survived by his wife of almost 60 years, Penelope "Penny" (Reese) Dennis; children: Richard "Dewey" Dennis (wife Terry) of Coplay, Loretta Kostyk (husband Harry) of Sellersville, Rhonda Jay (companion Joseph Ernst) of Bethlehem; sister: Gladys Nigrone of Catasauqua and 2 grandchildren: Rachel and Eric Dennis. His older brother: William died last week.

            Visitation is 4 to 5 PM Tuesday in the Ashton Funeral Home, 1337 Northampton St., Easton, followed by a service at 5 PM with Rev. Dr. David Charles Smith officiating. Interment is private.

            Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or Wounded Warrior Project. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.