Dennis’s Story

Site created on January 2, 2024

Welcome to Dennis' CaringBridge website. We are using it to keep family and friends updated in one place. 

In September 2023, Dennis was diagnosed with lung cancer. The cancer is in his right lung and a few lymph nodes. His treatment plan was 30 sessions of radiation over 6 weeks and weekly chemo during the radiation to help shrink the tumors. He successfully completed radiation in early December, but during chemo treatments Dennis experienced two life threatening episodes due to allergic reaction. Due to his reactions, chemo was discontinued. 

Soon after treatment began side effects and additional complications arose - irregular heartbeat (AFib), multiple infections/pneumonia, constant fluid around his lung, and difficulty breathing and eating. After multiple doctor and specialist consultations and hospital visits it was discovered Dennis has an abscess in his right lung as well. The abscess is likely due to aspirating food and liquid particles into his lungs due to his esophagus muscles being inflamed and weak.   

Dennis has been receiving care at St. John's hospital since December 28th. The most recent visit with the oncologist showed the cancer would require additional treatment, however in his weakened condition he's unable to withstand more treatments.  Dennis and his family have decided to stop any additional medical treatment and go home to spend quality time with family. Dennis will be released from St. John's on January 8th and go home where he will initiate hospice care.  

We appreciate your support and words of hope and encouragement. We will continue to post updates to this page. Thank you for visiting.

Newest Update

February 1, 2024

Journal entry by Ashley Trudeau —

An obituary for Dennis will be published in the St. Paul Pioneer Press on Sunday, February 4th. Please see below for the details regarding his Celebration of Life. Per Dennis' request, dress code is casual.

In loving memory of Dennis Sanftner who passed away peacefully on January 28, 2024 of lung cancer. Dennis was a 1969 graduate from Hill High School and worked with his dad at V & C Auto until pursuing his career as Head of Security at Unisys Corporation. Preceded in death by parents Vern and Marce Sanftner and sister, Sue Nystrom. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Laurie; daughters Mandy (Adam), Melanie (Justin), Ashley (Kenny); grandchildren Aubrey, Regan, Scarlett, Camilla, Riley, Valerie, Eli; and brother Vernon "Bud" Sanftner. A short service will be held Tuesday, February 27 at 4:00PM followed by a Celebration of Life from 4:30-7:00PM at Vadnais Commons (655 County Road F E., Vadnais Heights, MN). Stop by and celebrate the life of Dennis with us. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to the American Cancer Society.

Read More of the journal titled "February 1, 2024"
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