Dennis Parizek enlisted in the US Navy in 1971, serving as a radarman aboard the USS Newport News (CA-148), a heavy cruiser. In 1972, he became eligible for the VFW after participating in deployments to Vietnam for shore bombardment and enemy raids. His service earned him the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon.
After completing his enlistment in 1975, he graduated summa cum laude from Minot State College in 1978 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a minor in Accounting. In 1979, he and his wife, Judy, relocated to Fort Collins, CO, where he worked as a tax auditor for the Internal Revenue Service.
Dennis has been a VFW member since 1973 and is a Gold Legacy Life Member at VFW Post 1481 in Ogden, Utah. His involvement has spanned various positions, including Utah National Council Member, All-American Department Commander, and Post 1481 Commander. He has been a VFW National Home member for 26 years and is a Life Member Recruiter.
Since retiring as Senior Manager with the IRS in 2009, Dennis has focused on volunteering for veteran organizations, including the Ogden Homeless Veterans Fellowship. He holds a CPA designation and is a member of the American Institute of CPAs. His personal connection to the National Home stems from his childhood experiences with a single mother, fostering empathy for families in need.
Dennis shares his passion for the National Home with his wife Judy, who served as the VFW Auxiliary Dept. of Utah “Buddy”® Poppy and National Home Chairman and is also a life member. Together, they enjoy spending time with their family, reading, golfing, and traveling while continuing to honor veterans through various services.
