Dennis Michael Carlin, 66, of Sheridan, Wyoming, died Friday, May 17, 2013 in a motorcycle accident near Kirby, Montana.

Dennis was born July 7, 1946 in Rochester, New York to Michael and Ruth (Heimbichner) Carlin. The family moved to Billings, Montana when Dennis was very young and he grew up and attended Billings schools, graduating from Billings West in 1964.

Dennis joined the Air Force after graduation, then joined the Army and served two tours in Viet Nam as a Military Policeman/Detective along with his K-9 partner, “Duke.” He was also a police officer in Laurel, Montana before going to the Sheridan V. A. where he served many years as Chief of Police. Dennis also served part-time as a police officer for the town of Ranchester, as a security officer for Sheridan College, and as a police officer for the Wyoming Girl’s School for six years after retiring from the V. A.

Mr. Carlin married Linda Sue Davis in September of 1995 in Sheridan, Wyoming.

Dennis was a lifetime member of the N. R. A., was a gun enthusiast, was certified as a firearms instructor, enjoyed shooting competitions, and was a member of the V. F. W. He was also a former member of the Wyoming National Guard in Sheridan.

Mr. Carlin loved his church, Bethesda Worship Center, and spending time with his family. He was raising two of his grandchildren, Nathan and Bethanie Gideon, at the time of his death. He loved his little dogs, “Tater” and “Archie.” Dennis was a kind and generous man. His loss will be enormous. His family says “He was our rock.”

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers; and 1 grandson.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Sue, of Sheridan, Wyoming; 1 daughter, Ingrid Maddox, (Tom), of Tennessee; 2 step-sons, Dan and Bob Gideon, both of Sheridan, Wyoming; 1 brother, Mathew Carlin, (Debbie), of Billings, Montana; 1 sister, Josette Siraboto, of Gillette, Wyoming; sister-in-law, Betty Davis, of California; and 5 grandchildren, Emily Rose Maddox, Nathan and Bethanie Gideon, and Andrew and Jacob Gideon; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial service for Dennis will be 10:00 A. M. Saturday, May 25, 2013 at the Bethesda Worship Center, 1100 Big Horn Avenue, Sheridan, with Pastor Scott Lee officiating. Inurnment will be in the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery. A luncheon for family and friends will be held at the Bethesda Worship Center immediately following the inurnment. Arrangements are with Champion Ferries Funeral Home.

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