Dennis Golden

Dennis Golden, a vibrant soul who lived with great passion, passed away on May 13, 2025. Dennis is survived by his devoted wife Regina and children, Kevin, Kenneth, Lindsay and daughter-in law Jacqueline, his sister Annette Sipes, sister-in-law Sharon Golden, several nieces and nephews and many close friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Alex Rigali, brother Ron and brother-in-law Brad Sipes. 

He was born in Berkeley, California, on December 8, 1948, to John and Clara Golden. The family lived in Oakland briefly moving to Pleasant Hill where he attended school and developed lifelong friendships. 

Always one to seek thrills and adventure, Dennis joined the army after high school. After completing his service, he became an auto mechanic; but, soon fulfilled his desire to become a firefighter for the Oakland Fire Department. He served his community and country with courage and pride. In 1971, Dennis met Regina Oney and as he repeatedly stated until the end, knew she was the love of his life. They married on April 30,1972. Shortly after marriage, they started a family, welcoming three children. 

An injury sustained on duty cut short his career with the fire department. Dennis transitioned to a career that gave him immense joy and was one of the great passions of his life, fast cars. They say do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life; that is exactly what he did. As a hobby, Dennis thrived in the roar of competitive race cars and the freedom of motorcycles, bringing his children into the fold as well.  

In retirement, he found peace in days spent at the Lafayette Reservoir, where he soaked in the beauty of the world around him. Never one to sit still, Dennis started doing side work, all based on personal hobbies. His knack for mechanics and his love for over-engineering everything—from engines to home projects—reflected his relentless pursuit of excellence. He crafted immersive audio/visual experiences, chasing the perfect blend of sound and vision. He’d fix cars and pools, anything you can name, all you had to do was ask. 

One of his last accomplishments was helping organize a College Park High School reunion.  His friend Derk comments “this group would not have formed without the inspiration and dogged persistence and dedication of our buddy with the giant heart.  As he transitions, I’m sure he knows what his determination has brought to all of us and has somehow been comforted by the camaraderie that he inspired and will continue to inspire.” 

He leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and an unyielding spirit. Dennis was the spark in every room he entered, well known for raising hell at any gathering, leaving friends and family with stories they’ll share for years. These words don’t do justice to the indelible mark Dennis left on this world. His family asks that you honor his memory by living as he did… full throttle, with heart, and always ready for the next adventure. 

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 28th, at 2:00 pm at the Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville, CA.   

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dennis Golden, please visit our floral store.