Dennis Zaviska

Dennis Zaviska was born on March 30th 1938 to his loving parents Lillian and Joseph Zaviska. Denny spent his entire life in the Forada area. He met the love of his life Micky (Mercedes) Geisness while detasseling corn in the Forada area. Denny’s love resonates deep in the hearts of many people. Denny and Micky had 4 children: Cheryl (Edward), Michelle, Kevin (Crystal), and Melissa (Patrick). They also had 7 grandchildren: Christopher, Jennifer, Karen, Megan, Nicole, Catherine, and Rolland. In addition to grandchildren, they also had 4 great-grandchildren: Dominic, Isaac, Kylie, Ryland and 3 grand-puppies: Ollie, Gizmo and Bailey. Dennis would go to the ends of the earth for his family.

Denny started very young with his love of music. He started playing a button box accordion when he was 6 years old. He progressed into being an accordion teacher at the age of 15. Denny pervaded many local homes with his love of music for 24 ½ years while playing on KXRA during the noontime radio show while on his lunch breaks. Denny was a long-time employee for the Douglas County Highway Department for 39 years where he surveyed properties and designed roads and bridges.

He played on many TV shows including the Country Jubilee in the mid 50’s and had a great experience playing as a “sit-in” on the Lawrence Welk Show and with the late Frankie Yankovic Band.

Denny owned his accordion and music business for 67 years; he played his accordion for hours every day. Micky joined the long-time Dennis Zaviska Orchestra for the last 30 years playing bass guitar. In 1984 he played his 5 thousandth dance performance. Not only did Denny love his music, but he also had unconditional love for his family, friends and his little buddy Chico.

Denny had a heart of service; he served in the National Guard for 4 years, was one of the founding members of the Forada Fire Department and was Fire Chief for eight years, along with being a founding member of the Forada Lions Club. He maintained memberships in the Elks, Eagles, VFW, and American Legion. While in the Lions Club, he won the prestigious Helen Keller award. He also served on the Forada School Board and Denny was an active share holder at the Osakis Golf Course.

Denny was preceded in death by his parents Lilian, Joseph, Brother Duane (Dewy) and son in-law Gary. He is survived by many other family members including nieces and nephews who adored him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, November 24, 2020, 2:00 PM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  Burial will be at Hudson Cemetery.  Visitation will be held on Monday, November 23, 2020, 4:00 – 7:00 PM with a Parish Prayer Service at 4:00 PM at the Anderson Funeral Home.