Dennis James Cannon

Dennis James Cannon, 75, of Eden Prairie, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. The son of John and Winnie Cannon, Denny grew up in St. Louis Park and was a graduate of Benilde High School and the University of Minnesota. Married in 1978, he and Shelley (Sonaglia) began their journey together, always looking forward to where his career with the BNSF Railway might take them. After welcoming their three children, his final stop before moving back to Minnesota was Chicago. Arriving just in time to see the Bears win the Super Bowl, this was the closest this lifelong Vikings fan would come to having his hometown team hoist the Lombardi Trophy. Denny was a devoted father who rarely missed cheering on his children at hockey, soccer, and baseball games. His love for the outdoors grew into a lifelong passion for hunting and fishing-early mornings in the woods or on the lake shared with family and friends, and the laughter, storytelling, and tradition that came with them. An enthusiastic golfer, he cherished a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Europe, where he played historic courses in Ireland and fulfilled a longtime wish to visit the beaches of Normandy, honoring his deep appreciation for World War II history. Denny made and kept many dear friends from all chapters of his life and had a gift for staying connected throughout the years. Above all, he cherished time with family, often with a Leinenkugel's Honey Weiss in hand, funny stories to tell, a good laugh, and a smile on his face. His five grandchildren brought him endless joy and they will fondly remember their "Poppi" for his silly jokes, big hugs, and playful tickles. Denny retired from BNSF in 2012 and spent much of his well-earned free time with Shelley at the family cabin-fishing, playing a mean game of cribbage, cheering on his favorite Minnesota sports teams and happily putzing around in the garage. Even as his memory and mobility began to fade after his dementia diagnosis, his smile and sense of humor endured until the end. To know Denny was to love him and he will be deeply missed by many. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Shelley; their children Jeff (Sarah) Cannon of Chanhassen, Anne (Nick) Heinze of Chanhassen, John (Jenny) Cannon of Minnetonka; and his beloved grandchildren Allie, Dylan, Nora, Benjamin, and Caroline. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Winnie Cannon. As we approach his favorite holiday we will be reminded of his smile, his laughter, his courage and the joy he felt and shared when the family gathered to celebrate and give thanks for our many blessings. Denny...you will be forever loved. The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the kind and caring staff at Gianna Homes in Minnetonka-this journey would not have been the same without your guidance and support. Deep gratitude also to Grace Hospice for your compassion and faith during Denny's final days. A memorial service celebrating Denny's life will be held at Pax Christi Catholic Community in Eden Prairie on November 20, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by Mass at 11 and a reception afterward. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Gianna Homes Sursum Corda or the Alzheimer's Association in Denny's name. Alzheimer's Association Tribute Donation https://www.alz.org/ Gianna Homes Sursum Corda 4605 Fairhills Road East Minnetonka, MN 55345

Tributes

Dennis James Cannon

February 28, 1950 - October 16, 2025

Tributes

Dennis James Cannon

February 28, 1950 - October 16, 2025

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