<< Go Back To Obituaries

Dennis Ray Byington

Dennis Ray Byington

Oct. 28, 1949 - Dec. 9, 2022

Date of Service: Dec. 16, 2022

Watch the Webcast

BURLEY – Dennis Ray Byington, a 73-year-old resident of Burley, passed away Friday, December 9, 2022, from unexpected heart complications. Dennis was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and grandpa, whom his grandchildren called, “Oompa.”

He was born in Twin Falls, Idaho, on October 28, 1949, and was the second of five children. His family moved to Boise where he graduated from Borah High School. Dennis served an honorable mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in North Argentina. After he returned, he graduated from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, with a bachelor’s degree in speech and drama and completed Army ROTC. He then went on to be commissioned in the United States Army and was sent to electronics/communications school in New Jersey. He later attended airborne school in Georgia, where he met the love of his life, Ursula Maria Froisland. They were married in the Washington DC Temple on December 20, 1974, the week it opened.

After serving honorably in the military, Dennis and Ursula moved to Moscow, Idaho, where he graduated with his Juris Doctorate from the University of Idaho College of Law. They moved to Burley in 1982 where he practiced law for 37 years, including working as the Mini-Cassia Public Defender.

Dennis was very active in the community with music and the performing arts. He loved playing the piano, organ, and violin. He especially found joy in performing with the Magic Philharmonic Orchestra, along with being a guest conductor for many concerts. As president of the Mount Harrison Heritage Foundation for 20 years, he was involved in the creation of the King Fine Arts Center, and in directing numerous productions.

He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His service included being a member of three bishoprics, Scoutmaster for ten years, temple worker in the Twin Falls Idaho Temple, and serving two missions with his sweetheart in Mexico City, Mexico, and at the Kirtland, Ohio historical sites. His service was truly a reflection of his love for Jesus Christ and his family.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Delmer “Bing” and Georgia Belle Wheeler Byington.

He is survived by his wife, Ursula; eight children, Jason (Violet), Jeremy (Brooke), Justin (Jennilee), Jordan (Brittney), Janelle (Tom) Lungren, Jessica (Clayton) Fenton, Jacob (Sandra), and Jared (Kailey); 25 grandchildren; and his siblings, Janet (Stan) Hadley, LaDell (Bonnie), Linda (Steve) Kennedy, and Gary (Kathy).

The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, December 16, at the King Fine Arts Center, located at 2100 Parke Ave., in Burley, with Bishop Mark Dallon officiating. Military rites will be accorded in his honor by the Mini-Cassia Veterans Group. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery in Burley.

Family and friends will be received from 5 until 7 p.m. Thursday, December 15, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, and from 1 until 1:45 p.m. Friday, at the Little Theatre of the King Fine Arts Center.

The family has organized a scholarship foundation in memory of Dennis and his love for music and the performing arts. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made through: Venmo, @DennisRByingtonFoundation, or Zions Bank, Dennis R. Byington Memorial Foundation, Inc.

A live webcast of the Funeral Service will be available and maintained at the following link: https://youtu.be/veyFut_ER3E.

Condolences for Dennis Ray Byington

Comments may be screened and removed by the staff as deemed appropriate.

From Carol newbold:
My sincerest sympathies to your family ! My heart goes out to you ! Loved my cousin even though I never got to spend a great deal of time with him! God bless your family with peace
From Connie Holyoak:
Dear Ursula,
We were so sad to hear of Dennis' passing. We have such fond memories of the time we served together as senior missionaries in Mexico City. His expertise and willingness to serve the Lord paved the way for miracles to happen during the time you two were there. His musical talents blessed everyone, as did his sense of humor. He never shrank from physical or spiritual challenges. You two were such a source of encouragement to us! We have always admired both of you for your faith and faithfulness. Please know that you'll be in our thoughts and prayers. We pray your testimony of the Gospel and the promise of the resurrection will give you peace and comfort in the lonely days ahead. Much love, Roger and Connie Holyoak
From Kathryn tompkins:
Worked for Dennis in early ‘80’s and played violin with him in orchestra with mr Keezer until we moved back to Georgia in 1992.
Dennis was so personable and loved. Didn’t know any of the children but my condolences to y’all and Ursula as well. Sincerely. Kathryn Clark Tompkins
From Joe Stringham:
My condolences to the family of this friendly man. My mom has very fond memories of being in the orchestra with Dennis for many years. May Heaven shower the family with love and comfort.
From Emily Woodland:
When I think of Dennis, I first picture him dressed as Santa, a huge smile, and laughing with his whole heart. I've observed him in the courthouse, drama productions, church functions, and in orchestra practice. He's always exemplified the love and happiness of one who has chosen to follow Christ, full of service and love for others. I've been blessed by knowing him, and his daughters, Janelle and Jessica. Sending the family my love.
From Barbara Beehner-Kane, class of '82:
I was a classmate of Dennis during law school. He was a joy to know. My clearest memory of Dennis was when we were taking the winter bar exam in 1982. Imagine a group of 30 nervous wannabe attorneys in a basement room at the Idaho Supreme Court building in Boise. As we furiously were writing our exam, a noise sounds. Everyone jerked up their heads, wondering what on earth was going on, their concentration destroyed. Dennis had set his watch to limit how much time he spent on each question and the watch alerted him to stop writing on the question. He looked sheepishly with apology in his eyes. Needless to say, there were no further noise interruptions. :)

He was kind and funny. I am so sad to learn of his passing. My condolence to his family. May your memories bring you comfort.
From Jennifer Grout :
Our heart goes out to Byington Family... Know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
The Grout Family
From Sandy Ziegler:
My heart goes out to you Ursula and your family. I remember Dennis as clever and quick-witted, and a highly respected lawyer and dedicated family man. As all the above condolences show on this site, he will be missed by many.
From Carol newbold:
My sincerest sympathies to your family ! My heart goes out to you ! Loved my cousin even though I never got to spend a great deal of time with him! God bless your family with peace
From Brian and Debra Barlow:
Ursula and family, our prayers and our hearts are with you. Such a shocking and difficult time. You two have been such a great influence on our community. Thank you.
From Gary A McCall :
I am saddened at the loss of Dennis. I have enjoyed working with him in many capacities throughout the years. I extend my heartfelt condolences to Ursula and all the children and wish Dennis fair winds and following seas throughout the remainder of eternity.
From Candi Wells:
Ursula sending u my love!
From Brad and Lori Wilson:
So grateful for the many contributions Dennis made to the community and to our lives, personally. He was a good, good man. Love and condolences to the entire Byington family.
From Eileen A. Petersen:
Ursula, our deep, heart-felt condolences to you and your family on the loss of your eternal sweetheart, Dennis. He made Burley a better place. His impact as president of the Mt. Harrison Foundation and all the wonderful productions at the King Fine Arts Center have put this city in Idaho on the map! May you be comforted by the Savior’s love and knowing Dennis will be preparing a dwelling place for you in heaven to be with him again. Love from Eileen Albertson Petersen and family.
From Scott & Christine Horsley:
Our love and prayers to the Byington family at this time. We have fond memories of working together in so many capacities, including church, scouting, home teaching, and community events. May the peace the gospel brings help you through this difficult time.
From Al and Kathy Barrus:
Our thoughts and prayers are with Ursula and the family. Dennis was a good man and friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.
From Nancy Ady:
Dennis was my stand partner in orchestra for many concerts. He loved the modern musical technology and had just bought himself an early Christmas present- a bigger Ipad for his music. He was the first and only to use this system, turning his pages with a foot pedal. His character in "Chaps" wore a dress and he was a great sport about it. Dennis could laugh and not take himself too seriously on stage. One of my favorites......
From Stan and Marilyn Moncur:
Dear Ursula
We were so sad to hear about the passing of Dennis. It seems like just yesterday that we were together in the MTC. What shining example you both were to us! Your love of the gospel, music, and people
showed us how to always have the Light of Christ in our lives. We so enjoyed that you shared your mission with us in pictures and words. It was a time never to be forgotten. Our hearts reach out to you, Ursula and your family. May your wonderful memories sustain and comfort you.
From Lucas Handy:
Wonderful man and family!!! He will be greatly missed. If each man was more like Dennis Byington, our community would be a better place for our children!
From Lonnie and Gay Downs:
Dennis was a pillar in our community! His great work with the King Fine Arts Center and Mt. Harrison Foundation has had such a favorable impact here in Burley. He will be missed by so many. Our prayers for Ursula and his family at this most difficult time.
From Guy and Lyn Ann Arnell :
Ursula we are so sad to hear of Dennis’s passing. I have had the privilege of working with both of you through the years at the fine arts center. Our love and prayers to each of you. He will be missed for sure.
From Lonnie and Gay Downs:
Dennis was a pillar in our community! His great work with the King Fine Arts Center and Mt. Harrison Foundation has had such a favorable impact here in Burley. He will be missed by so many. Our prayers for Ursula and his family at this most difficult time.
From Shauna Kraus:
Ursula, I am so sorry for your loss. My Mom Joyce so appreciated your kindness and love. I am praying that you will know the comfort of Jesus as well as His everlasting mercy. God bless you.
From Jody Butler:
Dennis taught me so many things as a young scout. He taught me to stand straight, walk straight and take pride in a job well done. Lessons I can never forget. My heart goes out to the Byington Family as you celebrate a great man.
From Branden Allen:
I’m so sorry for this loss. I have many good memories of scouting trips and camp outs with Dennis. I’m sure I caused a lot of his gray hairs on those campouts. He was a great man that will be sorely missed.
From Leon and Dori Clegg:
So very saddened to hear of the passing of Dennis. We served together in the Spanish branch many years ago. He was so very kind in helping me learn my assignments. A humble servant of the Lord. Both Dennis father and my father were such good friends many years ago. Our families came from Downey, Idaho. May the Lord bless and keep you guided thru this difficult time. Our prayers are with each of you.
From Roger Holyoak:
Our love and condolences go out to Ursula and the family. We have many good memories with them.
From Joe and Linda Petersen:
Ursula, you and Dennis have given so much service to bring wonderful theatrical productions and music to our community. We are all better for your generous sharing of your time and talents.
From Vicki L Bench:
So sad. He was a good man!! My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
From Brian Muir:
Dennis was such an amazing man. He was an amazing Scout leader to me and then he was a great example of how to serve my community. I will really miss him!
From Jakob and Evelyn Froisland :
A true man of God, family, and friends! A legend in his own time! Until we meet again …
From Kelly Hutchinson :
So sorry to hear this. Dennis has touched and molded many lives. He will be missed.
From Maricel Jenkins:
My condolences to my sis Ursula and family. I pray for your family during this difficult time.
From Violet Byington:
Gone but not forgotten. My father in law, my husband's dad, my son and step children's grandpa and my mother in law's husband.
From Kathryn Hall:
Dennis did so much for the Mt. Harrison Heritage and King Fine Arts Center. He will be missed. My sympathy to you, Ursula
From Paul & Claudia Lyons:
We are so saddened by the news of the passing of Dennis. He was such a good man. He was so devoted to his wife and family. We send our love and prayers to Ursula and kids at this time. May you find peace especially at this time of year.
From Linda Kennedy :
I’m so so sorry for your loss of a husband , father and Grandfather. Such a talented man and giving of himself. I can remember the bossy brother he was growing up. Lol. But what an amazing man he became. I’ll miss him so much. His cute little memes he sent for birthdays. His cute sense of humor. I love you all
From John & Merena Reed:
We are indeed saddened by the passing of a good friend and actor. Our prayers and love go out to the Byington family. Dennis will be greatly missed. We pray that the Lord will watch over the family at this difficult time.
From Gillian Byington:
The last memory I have of my grandpa, I saw him healthy and happy and excited to talk about his upcoming Christmas orchestra concert. He always loved talking about our ancestors and how we all came to be here. The last thing I said to him was, “I love you, grandpa” and left around the corner.
From Roger Caresia Family:
To the Byington Family. Dennis was a good man and he will be missed. We pray for your family.

Condolence Form

Leave a Condolence or Memory:
Your Name:
Email (optional):
A real person knows the answer: 10 plus 9 =

*Note: Comments submitted after business hours will be reviewed and posted the following business day by funeral home staff.