Deacon Dennis J. Garber, age 84, formerly of Carpentersville, Illinois, passed away peacefully in the presence of family on Friday, October 2, 2026. Dennis was born in Gary, Indiana, to the late Joseph and Stella Rita (Grudzinski) Garber. He graduated from Purdue University and Western Michigan University and devoted his life to his family, his faith, and the education of young people. On June 9, 1962, Dennis married the love of his life, Janice F. Prusinski. During their 53 years of marriage, they raised five children and built a loving home filled with cherished family memories. Carpentersville was their home for more than 48 years, and Dennis's commitment to education and ministry touched many lives. Janice preceded him in death on June 20, 2015. Dennis dedicated his professional life to education, serving as a teacher and later as a principal and administrator in Township High School District 211. From 1981 until his retirement in 2002, he served as the principal of Hoffman Estates High School. Throughout those 21 years, he guided generations of students and supported the teachers and staff who shared his dedication to helping young people learn and succeed. His service to students extended well beyond his own school. Dennis served on the Illinois High School Association Board of Directors from 1993 to 2002, including two years as vice president and six years as president (1996 to 2002). Faith was at the heart of Dennis’s life. As a longtime member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Carpentersville, where he served as an ordained deacon, he lived out that faith through ministry and service. His work in the church and in education reflected the same enduring commitment: to guide, encourage, and care for the people entrusted to him. Above all, Dennis was a loving husband, father and grandfather. His family was central to the life he and Janice built together, and the memories they shared remain a treasured part of his legacy. His family, friends, parish community, former colleagues, and the many students whose lives he helped shape will deeply miss him. Dennis is survived by his five children, Amy (David) Holmgren, Dennis II (Lisa) Garber, Jennifer LaRocco, Matthew (Denise) Garber, and Melissa (Dave) Carroll; his eight grandchildren. In addition to his parents and his beloved wife, Janice, Dennis was preceded in death by his grandson, Julian Saindon, his sister, Debbie Garber, and his brother, Wayne Garber. Private family graveside services were held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Dundee Township East Cemetery in East Dundee. In lieu of flowers, Masses and acts of kindness offered in Dennis's memory would be appreciated. Memorial contributions may also be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Miller Funeral Home in West Dundee is assisting the family with all arrangements. For information, please call (847) 426-3436.