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Obituary For Dennis Allen Dietz
Dennis Allen Dietz, age 81, of Polk City, Iowa, passed away peacefully at his home on February 11, 2026.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Memorial Services of Iowa, (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny, Iowa). Burial will take place at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery, honoring his distinguished military service.
Dennis was born on September 13, 1944, in Hays, Kansas, to Fred George and Esther Marie (Phares) Dietz. A lifelong learner and leader, he earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas School of Law.
On May 27, 1965, Dennis married the love of his life, Sheila Gayle (Hallagin) Dietz, beginning a 60-year partnership filled with love, laughter, and service to others.
Dennis devoted nearly four decades to military service with passion and integrity. He first served as an enlisted Marine, deploying to Japan and Vietnam where he worked in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). His military journey continued with the Army National Guard, where in 2004, he was deployed to Kosovo to ensure fair compensation for local landowners affected by military operations. Dennis rose through the ranks to become Colonel and head of the Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps at Camp Dodge. Upon his retirement, he was promoted to Brigadier General, concluding a remarkable 38-year career of service to his country.
In addition to his military service, Dennis built a respected career in law and public service. He spent 20 years as in-house counsel for Mutual Benefit Life before taking roles with the Iowa League of Cities and the Iowa Finance Authority. At the state level, he oversaw the Title Guarantee Division and low-income housing initiatives, later serving as a lobbyist where his insight and integrity earned the respect of colleagues across the state.
Dennis was deeply devoted to his community, generously giving his time and expertise to numerous organizations, including the Ames School Board, the Johnston Rotary Club, the Polk City Planning and Zoning Commission, the Kosovo Consulate in Des Moines, the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum, and the North Polk Comet Cupboard Food Pantry.
He was known for his ability to “fix” nearly anything—mechanical, electronic, or human—and for his boundless curiosity, often found with a nonfiction book in hand.
Above all, Dennis cherished his family. He took immense pride and joy in his children and grandchildren, and this past December, he was delighted to spend time with all 17 family members together in San Diego, a moment he deeply treasured.
Dennis is survived by his loving wife Sheila Dietz; his children, Annette Dietz (Jeffrey Schlimgen), Michelle Dietz (Andrew Cox), Aaron Dietz (Pei Lin), and Suzanne Dietz (Kyle Honnig); and his cherished grandchildren, Owen, Wyatt, Vivian, Nathan, Elena, Emory, and Sydney. He is also survived by his sister, Vicki Krehbiel (Larry Krehbiel).
Dennis will be remembered for his steadfast leadership, sharp intellect, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to family, service, and community. His life was an example of integrity and love—a legacy that will live on through those who had the privilege to know him.
In lieu of flowers please honor Dennis by making a donation to the Iowa Gold Star Military Museum by mail to 7105 NW 70th Avenue, Johnston, IA 50131 or to the North Polk Comet Cupboard Food Pantry at https://secure.myvanco.com/L-Z7AC/home
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Chad Pottorff planted 5 trees in memory of Dennis Allen Dietz . - February 27, 2026
Our deepest sympathies to Sheila and family for their loss. Dennis was one of the most sincere and benevolent individuals I have known. We met years ago at the State Capitol when Dennis was the legislative liaison for the Iowa Finance Authority and I was an independent contract lobbyist. We jelled instantaneously while selling our wares to lawmakers, administrators and executive elected officials. During our retirement we became closer having occasional coffee and lunch. We enjoyed our time together with our wives at cultural and social gatherings. We hope Sheila and family can take solace in remembering the good times throughout the years. May he Rest in Peace. Tom & Lucy Fey
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I was at Boone as the full time executive officer when Dennis joined the brigade as our legal JAG officer. He performed as a true professional in every aspect of his duties..
I worked with Dennis for over six years when he served as a receiver on a case where the Iowa Attorney General sued a company that took over $2,4 million from Iowans and Nebraskans - as well as almost 300 homes. Dennis worked incredibly hard and with little administrative support. His efforts and expertise were instrumental in returning homes to many of the victims as well as reimbursing many of them for at least part of their loss. In the end, he refused any payment for his services. Instead, he directed all those funds to the victims.
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Dennis was a man of the highest quality. Loving, caring and honorable. It was a pleasure to know him. He will be missed
Dear Sheila, Annette, Michelle, Suzy, and Aaron,
I was very sorry to hear about Dennis. I remember fondly the times I spent at your home when I was a student in Ames. Dennis was a man of integrity and strong character, and those memories have stayed with me over the years.
Please know that you are all in my thoughts. May his memory bring you strength and comfort in the days ahead.
With heartfelt condolences, Wassef
Michelle & Suzy I send prayers and my sincere sympathy at the loss of your Dad. It is so hard to lose one of your parents -- my heart breaks for you -- my sincere sympathy. Theresa
Dennis was a man who shouldered many responsibilities, consequently had many accomplishments, and was admired by all who knew him. Semper Fi, Dennis! Larry & Sherry B
Dennis served the State of Iowa with distinction. He administered the Iowa Title Guaranty program, a unique to Iowa program that guarantees title to purchasers of land. He later served as Legislative Liaison for the Iowa Finance Authority. He was popular among legislators because he knew so much and was a pleasure to work with. He also took over as trustee and closed the Iowa Housing Corp. without a hitch. I worked with him for years and found him a joy to work with. He was always anxious to help and to learn and teach new things. A wonderful man.
In addition to the selfless contributions mentioned in his obituary, Denny was a key player in establishing the Iowa National Guard Foundation, an organization that continues to support the professional development of Iowa National Guard Army and Air Officers and Enlisted members. Thank you for your superb Service, Denny!
Dennis Served his country with integrity Loved his family unconditionally Enriched his friends abundantly You will be remembered, never forgotten Always in our hearts, and forever loved Your legacy includes A beautiful, loving family Communities you've impacted And, the respect of friends Near and far
Dennis Served his country steadfastly Loved and supported his family Enriched his friends with joy and wisdom You will be, always in our hearts Remembered, never forgotten And, forever loved Celebrated with honor And, missed always. Your life was a blessing Your memory is a treasure.
