With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dennis Ray Sangster, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. Dennis was a man of boundless interests and a warm spirit, who shared his joy for life with everyone he met.

He was born on his family farm north of Protection, KS on October 21, 1936.

An Old West history enthusiast, Dennis was a captivating storyteller who could transport listeners back in time. He spent many happy hours at the Dodge City library, diving into the lives and tales of the past, always eager to share a story with anyone willing to listen.

Dennis was rarely seen without his camera, capturing the world around him. He had a deep love for photographing outdoor scenery, and was especially drawn to old windmills, which he saw as timeless symbols of resilience and beauty. His photos—of sunsets, landscapes, and those classic windmills—spoke to his appreciation for life's quiet wonders and his eye for hidden beauty.

Although he was an avid Jayhawk fan, after his grandkids attended K-State, he quickly grew to love and cheer on the Wildcats.

Above all, Dennis cherished his family. He has left behind his wife of 37 years, Joan Mary Peitz; three step-daughters, Connie DeRocher (Jeff) of Rogers, AR, Terri Payne (Jake) of Cimarron, KS and Karen Cunningham (Berni) of Wichita, KS; a sister, Mary Ewy of Dodge City, KS, seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, who brought him endless happiness, and he shared countless precious moments with them, filled with stories, laughter, and love.

He was the shop foreman and mechanic for the Broce Construction Company in Dodge City for nearly 40 years and then started a repair shop, Cowtown Machinery Company. Even after he retired, customers continued dropping off lawnmowers to be fixed in his driveway at his home.

He was a member of the American Legion, Veteran of Foreign Wars, and served in the Army.

Dennis and Joan generously funded the installation of markers and a storyboard commemorating the Santa Fe Trail at the Cimarron County Club, helping preserve this important historical landmark.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Sangster and Lucy Marie Stevenson and his seven brothers and sisters, Bob Sangster, Betty Hester, Dick Sangster, Jennie Oller, Maggie Barrett, Lila Blasi, and Hud Sangster.

Dennis will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the history and beauty he loved so dearly.

Viewing will be Thursday, October 31st from 12-2:30 PM at Hatfield-Prusa Funeral Home, 206 N. Philadelphia, Coldwater, KS followed by a graveside service at 3 PM at Protection Cemetery in Protection, KS.

Family and friends are invited to join at the Methodist Fellowship Hall, 102 N Washington, Protection, KS after the burial service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Community Foundation of SW Kansas or Ford County Historical Society in care of Hatfield-Prusa Funeral Home, P.O. Box 417, Coldwater, KS 67029.