Dennis L. Broeckling, 75, of Salisbury, passed away Saturday, July 12, 2025 at his home in Salisbury, NC.

He was born September 6, 1949 in Breese, IL to the late Walter and Rita Peters Broeckling. Dennis was born and raised in Clinton County, Illinois with his seven siblings during the 1950’s and 60’s. He enjoyed bike rides with the small town neighbor kids. Dennis learned to fish and hunt and later woodworking craftsmanship from his father. Those hobbies and skills he enjoyed teaching his children and grandkids.

Dennis graduated Wesclin High School in 1967 and one year later he joined the US Army and served a one year tour in Vietnam. He was awarded two Overseas Air Medal Awards, Bronze Star Medal, Sharpshooter Expert, Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal along with several Combat Badges and Bars of recognition as an Infantry Man.

Upon his return home from Vietnam in 1970, Dennis was introduced on a blind date to the former Linda Reynolds. They married in 1972 and raised three children, Jennifer, Eric and James. His happiest times were with his kids on a boat fishing, in a deer stand hunting and out in the field dove hunting with his bird dogs.

Dennis was a loving husband, father and grandpa and a dedicated employee in the manufacturing industry known for his excellent work ethic. Due to several illnesses, Dennis retired after 45 years as a Foreman and Supervisor. Renewed life began for Dennis as he enjoyed processing and smoking wild game that he shared with family and friends. He always took time to drive his grandkids and great-grandkids in his 4-wheeler to the nearby lake to feed the geese.

In addition to his parents, Dennis was preceded in death by his son, Matthew Broeckling; sisters, Linda Bower and Janet Flowers; and brother-in-law, John Blavesciunas.

Dennis is survived by his wife Linda Reynolds Broeckling; daughter, Jennifer Myers and husband Corey; sons; Eric Broeckling and wife Kristen and James Broeckling and wife Liza; eight grandchildren, Alex (Elizabeth) Myers, Andra (Brennon) Blair, Ava, Addison and Cole Broeckling; Aria, Everly and Lilah Broeckling; three great grandsons, Jaxon, Maverick and Wyatt Blair; brothers, Dean Broeckling and Lonny Broeckling; sisters, Donna (Randy) Feldt, Peggy (Curt) Wright and Mary Blavesciunas.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Rowan Medical Center Foundation Wallace Cancer Institute 130 Mocksville Ave. Salisbury NC 28144 or to Novant Health Rowan Hospice1229 Statesville Blvd. Salisbury NC 28144 or to the American Cancer Society PO Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741

Carolina Cremation is honored to serve the Broeckling family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.