Dennis Orland Brightwell

Dennis O. Brightwell, 81, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather was called home to glory on October 27, 2021 in Fishers, Indiana. He was born on November 8, 1939 in Anderson, Indiana.

In 1957, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served 7 years as an air traffic controller. Dennis also served in the U.S. Air Force, including a tour of duty in Vietnam, as an air traffic controller until his retirement as the Chief Air Traffic Controller at McConnell AFB, KS in 1978. Following a distinguished career in the military, Dennis had the distinction of serving another 20 years in the U.S. Postal Service, as well as an additional 10 years with the Indianapolis Police Department. He attained his Associates Degree from Kansas Newman University and his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Purdue University. Dennis married Doris J. Brightwell (née Lunn) on November 15, 1958 and was married to her until her death. Dennis married Mary Ann Underhill on April 18, 2015 and was married to her until he was called home.

Dennis is preceded in death by his wife of 51 years, Doris J. Brightwell; his parents, William and Martha Brightwell; his siblings Robert H. Brightwell, Mary E. (Betty) Brandenburg, Virginia F. (Faye) Imel, William D. (Billy) Brightwell; his grandson, Christopher C. Vosika; and parents-in-law, Douglas and Leola Lunn. Dennis is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Brightwell; his children, Connie (Doug) Lee, Scott Brightwell, Steven (Christina) Brightwell; stepchildren, Michael (Keely) Underhill, Liz (Ed) Ward; 11 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild.