Obituary of Dennis Harlan Napier

Dennis H. Napier born May 15, 1949, passed away June 13, 2012 at the age of 63. He was the beloved husband of Lu Napier, deceased. Father of 4 children, Corey Nollan, Nicole Napier, Tyler Napier and Nadia Napier. He and Lu were grandparents to Isabella Nollan. Dennis is survived by his father, J.H. Owens; two sisters, Betty Bolen and Kathy McGill; and one brother, Jack Owens. He had two uncles, Mel Ferris and Walt Easter as well as many nieces and nephews and cousins in his extended family. He was an inspiration and example for all of us, having served in the United States Marine Corp in Viet Nam. He was only 19 years old when he sustained life threatening injuries that resulted in becoming an amputee. Despite this, he went on to achieve many goals in his life. He worked in the print shop at Pierce County Medical where he met the love of his life, Lu Napier, later retiring from the print shop at McChord Air Force Base. Dennis and Lu married in 1988. They raised their 4 children together, always involved in many family activities. Dennis enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life. He began skydiving soon after meeting Lu, and the two of them pursued that sport together, eventually allowing Corey to try the sport as well. Dennis was recognized by McChord Air Force base for his involvement in this sport being an amputee and was interviewed and written about in the base newspaper “Airlifter”. He enjoyed many years of 4-wheeling with his uncle Mel, Cousin Craig and extended family and friends. He encouraged Nadia with her love of horseback riding, enjoyed paintball outings with Tyler, Corey, as well as his extended family, and was proud of Nicole’s involvment in her school talent shows and her love of dancing. No family gathering really ever got started until Dennis and Lu arrived. His stories were legendary and no matter how many times he told them, we all begged to hear them one more time. Always with Lu laughing and shaking her head at Dennis’s ability to be the life of the party and make everyone laugh. He will be forever missed for the memories he created for his family and friends. Dennis was dearly loved. A memorial service for Dennis will be held on June 30th at 11:00am Marymount --- 325 152nd Street East Tacoma, WA 98445