Dennis Alan "Denny" Back

Dennis Alan "Denny" Back, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on September 30, 2025, in Zanesville, Ohio, due to complications from COPD. Born in the small town of Barnsville, Ohio, on March 6, 1946, to the late Ernest and Sarah (Wehr) Back, Denny was a man whose wisdom, love, and handy skills touched the lives of everyone around him.

Denny graduated from Zanesville High School in 1964, and shortly thereafter, he answered the call of duty by serving his country in the Army. Stationed in Germany from June 1964 to June 1967, he was a Specialist Fourth Class (SP4 F), where he not only earned the National Defense Service Medal Expert (rifle) but was also responsible for the maintenance of tanks. His time in the military was marked by honor and dedication, and he received an honorable discharge for his service.

Upon returning home, Denny married his soulmate, Rose Mary (Rodonsky) Back, on November 23, 1968, and together they built a loving family. His legacy continued through his children—Denise (William "Bill") Runkle, Misty (Jeffrey "Jeff") Sparkman, Denis "Chip" (Latisha "Tish" Fowler) Back, Chad (Amanda Watson) Back, and Bradly "Brad" (Faith Bash) Back. The family grew with the addition of numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to Denny's life. His grandchildren, Brett (Ashley) Runkle, Cory (Mercedes) Runkle, Derrick (Madison Smith) Runkle, Eric (Jessica) Runkle, Amanda (Jake Pez) Riggs, Andrew Riggs, Courtney (Piri) Rodriguez, Paige (Stan) Zajac, Jenneka (Zachary Johnson) Sparkman, Austin (Taylor) Back, Madison Back, Ashley Back, Aryial Harris, Emma Back, Lilly Spicer, Kingzton Dickerson, Kenzley Stallons, Cash Watson, Jonathan Back, Kaylee (Brayden) Glanemann, and Ella Back, will forever cherish his memory. The joyous sounds of great-grandchildren, Trenton, Tillie, Izzabella, Donovan, Axel, Micah, Madison, Gracie, Ronin, Jenson, Anthony, Chris, Adrian, Aiden, Stanley, Bailey, Bradley, Wiley, Bruce, Raelynn, Denni, Luca, Alayna, Braxton, Xander, and Kayden, filled his home and heart.

After his military service, Denny found his calling as a heavy equipment operator in the coal mines, where he worked until his retirement. His colleagues respected him for his strong work ethic and camaraderie. Outside of work, Denny was a dedicated fan of the Cleveland Guardians—forever the Indians in his heart—along with the Cleveland Browns and the Ohio State Buckeyes. His love for sports was paralleled by his enjoyment of working on cars and playing softball, where his competitive spirit and teamwork shone through.

Denny is also survived by his siblings, Wayne (Josie) Back, Phyllis (Rick) Goldsmith, and Donnie (Cathy) Back, as well as sister-in-law Peggy (Bob) Moore. He was predeceased by his in-laws, Vincent (Margaret "Sis" Sites) Rodonsky, and siblings Melvin Back, David Back, and Kevan Back. His extended family, including several nieces and nephews, will miss his wise counsel and loving presence.

Denny was the epitome of a handy, loving, and wise man. His life was a testament to the strength of character, devotion to family, and the joy of living a life filled with passion and purpose. As we bid farewell to Dennis Alan Back, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.