Dennis Vaughn Hotchkin 71, passed away in his home May 9, 2020 with his family by his side. He was born and raised in Sturgis, SD. He graduated from Sturgis Brown High School in 1968. While he was in high school, Dennis excelled in track. He joined the United States Army in 1971and was stationed in Germany and Colorado Springs, CO.

Following his enlistment, he moved to various states around the country. He returned back to South Dakota, met Geri Heyd and they spent 10 years together.

Dennis is survived by his sister Diana Lee, his 6 children, Dennis (Amy) Hotchkin, Leonard (Alicia) Hotchkin, Crystal Hotchkin, Tina (Greg Johnson) Hotchkin, Tiffany Hotchkin and Wayne Hotchkin; Geri Heyd, his long-time girlfriend; 8 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Harold Lauer; and 2 brothers, Richard Dean Hotchkin, and Donald Ray Litster.

Dennis will be buried at Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, SD.  Due to the gathering restrictions, Dennis' family will hold a private burial now and will host a celebration of life service at a later date to properly celebrate his life with his family and friends.