Dennis James Doherty Jr.: 1957 – 2026
Dennis James Doherty Jr. was born in Boulder, Colorado, on October 30, 1957, to Dennis and Winifred Doherty. The family later moved to Casper, Wyoming, where Dennis grew up as the eldest of eleven siblings. This large, vibrant home along with the faith community at St. Patrick Parish instilled in him a lifelong love of teaching and learning. A proud graduate of Kelly Walsh High School, Dennis excelled both academically and on the golf course under the mentorship of coach Beecher Strube. These early experiences paved the way for a life defined by talent and faith. Immediately following graduation, Dennis enlisted in the U.S. Navy, beginning a distinguished 20-year career as a nuclear electrician and retiring as a Senior Chief Petty Officer in the Submarine Division with 13 underwater patrols.
Dennis began his distinguished naval career in the Navy Nuclear Power program, completing his Electrician’s Mate “A” School with high marks. His natural aptitude for the field led him to excel at the rigorous Naval Nuclear Power School, an institution he would later return to as a respected instructor. He completed his advanced training at the Nuclear Power Training Unit in Idaho. He later returned for a subsequent tour at the Nuclear Power School in Orlando as an instructor and class director.
Over the course of a 20-year career, Dennis served with distinction aboard the nuclear-powered submarines USS James Madison (SSBN-627) and USS Kentucky (SSBN-737), including vital time in dry dock during the PCU phase of the Kentucky prior to its commissioning. A testament to his leadership and technical mastery, Dennis earned the prestigious title of Chief of the Boat (the COB serves as the primary liaison between the submarine’s commanding officer and the enlisted crew.). His expertise was further recognized when he reached the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer; his gold stripes served as a proud symbol of 20 years of continuous outstanding conduct.
A seasoned veteran of the deep, Dennis earned numerous prestigious honors while serving aboard the USS Pargo (SSN-650). His seafaring milestones included the Order of the Bluenose for crossing the Arctic Circle, the Order of the Ditch for transiting the Panama Canal, the Order of Magellan for circumnavigating the globe, and entry into the Domain of the Golden Dragon upon crossing the 180th Meridian. His highly decorated service included the Navy Commendation Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal with three gold stars, and the Navy Good Conduct Medal with four stars. For his honorable service during the Gulf War and the War on Terrorism, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, along with the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (four stars) and the Navy Arctic Service Ribbon.
As his naval career progressed, so did his family; he married Dawn and welcomed two children, Danielle and Scott. Dennis’s devotion to his faith and his belief in the power of education were the cornerstones of his life. Even while serving at sea, he remained dedicated to providing his children with a private Catholic education. This commitment to spiritual and personal growth profoundly shaped his family, leaving a lasting legacy in his daughter, Danielle. Her own passion for teaching in a private Christian school today is a direct reflection of the values her father instilled in her. While Dennis excelled professionally as an instructor at the Nuclear Power Training School and Command, his life was defined by more than just his work. A natural athlete who was never content to simply be a spectator, he found great joy and camaraderie in the swimming pool, on the softball field, at the bowling alley, and especially on the golf course
Dennis eventually settled in the Orlando and Clermont area, where his life flourished in new and meaningful ways. A dedicated parishioner of Holy Family Catholic Church and an active member of the Legends Golf Club, he became a pillar of his local community. It was here that his life with Michelle truly blossomed, beginning 32 years of shared love defined by golf, travel, and countless adventures. In a poetic transition from his naval service, Dennis rose from the depths of the ocean to sail upon it with Michelle, embarking on 33 cruises to over 30 countries and golfing across the globe. Yet, ever the leader, he also dedicated himself to his community; his instrumental efforts to reestablish the Legends Golf and Country Club left behind a legacy that will endure for years to come.
Beyond the invaluable skills and experience gained as a nuclear electrician, Dennis’s naval service paved the way for his academic pursuits. He took full advantage of these opportunities, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Columbia College (magna cum laude) and a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Troy University (summa cum laude). Dennis eventually translated his lifelong commitment to excellence into a new mission: mentorship in the classroom.
Dennis’s passion for science and education remained a guiding force. He began a second career as a middle school science teacher, where he did far more than just follow a curriculum; he motivated and inspired his students. His impact was formally recognized when he was named Windy Hill Middle School Teacher of the Year and received the prestigious PRISM Science Teacher of the Year award for Lake County Secondary Schools.
While his awards speak to his distinction as an educator, his true love was his family. He has now found peace, reunited on April 9, 2026 with the family members who preceded him in eternal rest. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis and Winifred Doherty; his grandparents; his brother-in-law, Gale Roberts; his aunt, Anne Patrice Patino; and his uncle, Paul Doherty.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Michelle Doherty; his children, Danielle (Cory) and Scott; and his cherished grandchildren: Bryson (Rachel), Heyden, Halle, and Brinlee.
He also leaves behind ten brothers and sisters: Michael Doherty, Patrick (Cindy) Doherty, Maureen Roberts, Kevin (Celia) Doherty, Kathleen Souza, John (Mary) Doherty, Colleen (Todd) Domer, Teresa (Grant) Salada, Sheila Doherty, and Josephine (Richard) Burke. He is further survived by his aunts, Maureen Doherty and Sheila Doherty; 26 nieces and nephews; and 15 great-nieces and nephews.
In respect of Dennis’s commitment to quality education and his deep faith, the family suggests donations to Holy Family Catholic School, Orlando Florida in his honor, in lieu of flowers.
(https://www.hfcschool.com/giving)
Funeral Mass
Holy Family Catholic Church
Orlando Florida
May 12, 2026, 1 p.m.
Internment
Florida National Cemetery
Bushnell, Florida
May 13, 2026, 11:30 a.m.
Marion Erwin: 1931 – 2025
Marion Erwin passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025. She had been living in Minnesota near family. Marion was born April 19, 1931, in Bonetrail Township, near Williston, North Dakota. She was the daughter of Bryan Albert and Mamie (Seeb) Albert. Marion grew up in a close-knit family, cherishing her Lebanese heritage and the values passed down by her parents.
On October 27, 1961, Marion married Thomas Erwin. The couple established their long-term home in Casper, Wyoming, where they built a life together filled with love and companionship.
Marion dedicated 21 years of her life to working at Shilo and The Viking Restaurant. Through her hard work and warm personality, she made many friends and became beloved by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her.
Marion was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her brothers: Lloyd, Fred, Harvey, Lester, Joey, Mike, and Eddie, an infant brother. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Dorothy and Shirley. Marion’ sister, Josephine, passed away two months after Marion. She is survived by many nieces and nephews.
There will be a funeral service for Marion on Friday, May 15 at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 400 Country Club Rd, Casper.
Marion’s ashes will be laid to rest alongside her husband at the Oregon Trail Veterans Cemetery in Evansville, Wyoming, honoring their life together.
Donna Larene Loghry: 1936 – 2026
Donna Larene Loghry, 90, of Casper, Wyoming, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026.
Donna lived a full and independent life marked by dedication, energy, and a deep love for learning and the people around her. She devoted many years to education as a science teacher at East Junior High, where she inspired countless students with her curiosity, discipline, and passion for understanding the world.
An athlete at heart, Donna loved staying active. She was an avid skier and enjoyed coaching both volleyball and basketball, sharing her competitive spirit and encouragement with generations of young athletes. Outside of the classroom and gym, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures—especially the thrill of a good garage sale and the treasures that came with it.
Donna never married and had no children of her own, but she was deeply loved by her family and played an important role in their lives. She is survived by her nephew, Gary Loghry (Nicki) and their children, Ryan and Sara; her niece, Kelly Thorson (Jerry) and their children: Chelcie, Chloe, and Garrett; and her niece, Erin Potter (Tom) and their children: Avery, Reece, and Rogan.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother; and her great-great niece, Ava Thorson.
Donna will be remembered for her strength, independence, and the lasting impact she made as a teacher, coach, and beloved family member.
Carol Lee Summers: 1942 – 2025
On December 9, 2025, Carol Summers of Casper, Wyoming, passed away at the age of 83 following a short illness. Cremation has taken place. Her obituary was published on December 19, 2025.
Carol will be laid to rest on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the Oregon Trail Veteran’s Cemetery in Evansville, Wyoming at 2 p.m. A reception will be held following the service at the Paradise Valley Country Club from 3 to 5 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family ask that contributions be made to the Casper Humane Society in Carol’s name.
