Dennis Gienger

Dennis Gienger, age 80, died February 20, 2023, at Sanford Medical Center, Fargo, ND.

Dennis W. Gienger was born September 9, 1942, in Jamestown, N.D., the son of Edwin and Virginia Gienger.  He grew up in Streeter, ND graduating from Streeter High School in 1960.  Dennis went on to attend Jamestown College, graduating in 1964 with a degree in physical education. A talented four-sport athlete, Dennis earned letters in basketball, football, track, and baseball.

Dennis taught and coached in Turtle Lake, ND, and Rugby, ND, before pursuing a master’s degree at the University of North Dakota. He was then an assistant basketball coach at UND for eight years. Dennis returned to Jamestown College and was head men’s basketball coach from 1979 to 1981, leading the Jimmies to an NDCAC league championship in 1980 and NDCAC tournament championship in 1981.

In 1982, Dennis made a career change and went to work for Converse in sales management and relocated to the West Coast. After 10 years in the private sector, Dennis returned to teaching and coaching until his retirement in 2006.  An avid sports fan, Dennis spent over 40 years as a referee in football and basketball committing nights and weekends traveling for both high school and college games.  When he wasn’t coaching, refereeing or traveling for Converse, Dennis could usually be found watching whatever game was showing on ESPN.

In 2017, the University of Jamestown celebrated the opening of the Harold Newman Arena and Dennis Gienger Gymnasium, recognizing Dennis for his significant contributions to the University.  Dennis was inducted into the University of Jamestown Alumni Hall of Fame in 2019 and was also inducted into the University of North Dakota Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the basketball coaching staff.

Dennis moved back to Jamestown in the summer of 2022. Although his time in Jamestown was cut too short, he loved attending Jimmie football, volleyball, and basketball games and catching up with old friends.

Dennis is survived by his sister, Judith Hoeglund, Detroit Lakes, MN; brothers, Gerald (Ann), Erie, CO; and Eugene, New Zealand; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Edward & Virginia (Perman) Gienger, and his brother Donald.

Services are pending.