Dennis Lee Mettlen

Dennis Lee Mettlen - October 22, 1944 - February 22, 2024.

Dennis Lee Mettlen, of Forsyth, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, February 22, 2024. Dennis was born on October 22, 1944. He graduated from Lawton High School in Lawton, Oklahoma, in 1962 and enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served for three years before enlisting in the United States Army.

Dennis served three tours with the army in Viet Nam as a recognizance pilot and forward air controller. He retired from active duty in 1976, after which he served in the US Army Reserves until he retired with the rank of Major in 1980. For his service Dennis was decorated with the Bronze Star, Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Viet Nam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, and other emblems of merit.

In retirement Dennis worked for 22 years with Northrup Grumman with whom he conducted electronic training exercises around the world for the US military. In 1987 he joined the Civil Air Patrol in Flagstaff, Arizona, as deputy commander of cadets, serving as an instructor in aerospace and leadership. An avid fisherman, Dennis and his wife, Judith, moved to Forsyth to enjoy the area’s abundant opportunities. Dennis joined local squadron of the Civil Air Patrol upon moving to Missouri, for whom he served as a search and rescue observer.

In Missouri, Dennis renewed his commitment to Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior; he was a faithful elder of Community Presbyterian Church, serving on the session (the church governing body) and as church treasurer, liturgist, and a member of the choir.

Dennis is survived by his children, Vance and his wife Tanya, Marc, and Kris, and two siblings, Brian and Tim. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Lee Robert Mettlen and Frances Alena Mettlen, and his beloved wife of 45 years, Judith Hamilton Mettlen.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Community Presbyterian Church in Forsyth. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall. Memorial donations made to Wounded Warriors or any service members' support association of your preference. Services under the direction of Snapp-Bearden Forsyth Chapel Forsyth.