Dennis W. Krieger, 72, of Middletown, died Friday, July 1, 2022 at Veterans Medical Center, Iowa City. He was born December 20, 1949, in Mt. Pleasant to Wilbur Frank and Irene Helen Thorington Krieger.
He grew up in New London and was a 1968 graduate of New London High School and earned his teaching certificate from Iowa State University. He was a member of the Middletown Presbyterian Church. Dennis served four years in the United States Navy as an electrical repairman aboard the USS Sacramento AOE-1. He was a “Royal Shellback” and one of his greatest honors was October 3, 2017, when he went on the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight to Washington, DC. Following his service, he married Leslye Lynn Putney on June 19, 1971 at the New London United Methodist Church.
He worked for Burlington Northern Railroad, JI Case Company, and taught farming, agriculture and photography at Southeastern Community College. In his younger years, he played guitar in numerous local bands. Known as “Photo Daddy”, photography was the second love of his life, after Leslye. His photos were covers for many magazines including “Circle Track” and “Oval Track” in Australia, and for Mopar calendars; was track photographer for 34 Raceway in West Burlington, Lee County Speedway in Donnellson, and Knoxville Raceway for years. His favorite catch phrase was “trust me…..I’m a professional”. And he was. A highlight of his life was meeting Jimi Hendrix at the Filmore West three months before Hendrix’ death. He loved his family and was very proud of his boys, Chad and Justin.
Besides his wife Leslye, Dennis is survived by his sons Chad of Twin Cities, MN, and Justin of Phoenix, AZ; nieces and nephews; his three precious pseudo daughters, Tina, Missy and Wendy; and his beloved schnauzer “Avery”. He was preceded in death by his parents.
According to his wishes, his body has been cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Full military burial at Iowa Veterans Cemetery, Adel, Iowa will take place at a date to be determined. A memorial has been established. Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com.