Dennis Lendzion

Lt. Colonel Dennis "Denny" Gene Lendzion, 79, passed away on February 15, 2025, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was surrounded by his family.

Denny was born on July 30, 1945, in Linden, New Jersey. He attended high school in Linden before pursuing higher education at Wichita State University in Kansas, where he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees. His passion for aviation led him to Officer Training School (OTS) in the U.S. Air Force, followed by extensive pilot training for F-4s, T-37s, and F-16s. He also completed instructor training for these aircraft, preparing him for a distinguished military career.

In 1969, Denny joined the U.S. Air Force and embarked on a remarkable 21-year career as a fighter pilot and instructor. He served two one-year tours in Korea as a fighter pilot and spent three years as an instructor pilot at various stations. His service continued in Germany, where he served as an Air Liaison Officer and "Check Out" officer for eight years. Later assignments brought him to Holloman AFB and Luke AFB before he retired in 1990 with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Throughout his military career, Denny was recognized with numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Outstanding Award with one oak leaf cluster, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon with four oak leaf clusters.

Following his military retirement, Denny transitioned to a career in commercial aviation. In 1990, he began flying for American Airlines, where he served as a captain until his retirement at age 60 after 15 years of service.

Beyond his professional achievements, Denny had a deep love for adventure and camaraderie. He and his beloved wife, Sara Lendzion, shared a passion for racing events with Porsche clubs across Europe and enjoyed skiing together. An avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman, Denny spent cherished time at his lake property on Texoma and his retreat in Colorado. He was also an active member of his neighborhood association, relishing monthly gatherings with friends and neighbors.

Denny will be remembered as a devoted husband, brother, friend, and cherished member of his extended family. He was known for his kindness, generosity-despite playfully calling himself "cheap"-and unwavering optimism. His sense of humor was one of his most endearing qualities, bringing joy to those around him.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife Sara Lendzion; parents Joseph and Mary Lendzion; brother Vaughn Lendzion; sister-in-law Gail Mcgough-Madueña; and nephew Lindsey Green.

He is survived by his sisters-in-law Ann McGough and Nancy McGough Green; brothers-in-law Sean Green and James Madueña ; nieces and nephews Pam Sever (Dave); Alexandra Taylor (Brandon) and their children Alynna, Antony, Gavin and Micaela; Brooke Irwin (Daniel) and their children James and Eva; Joel Green (Deanna) and their children Viola and Scarlett; Mara Mcgough-Madueña-Muchow (Cody); Alison McGough-Madueña (Reid) and their children Ainslie and Henry; James McGough-Madueña (Marissa) and their children Grace and Micheal; His best friend Mike Hughes and God daughters Ashley Haines (Jimmy) and their children Dylan and Emily; Kelsey Engelbracht (Pete) and their son Rhys; as well as many dear friends who will miss him greatly.

A visitation will be held on February 25, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM with a memorial service to follow at 9:30 AM at FRENCH-Wyoming in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Burial will full military honors will follow the service at Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Denny's legacy of service, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.