Dennis J. Cardinali, 66, of Sycamore, died peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021 at home.

He was born June 2, 1954 in Sycamore to Daniel D. and Della (Tyrrell) Cardinali.  He was the middle of five siblings and was considered by many the most mischievous of the four Cardinali boys. His childhood on Freed Road was filled with long days outside with his brothers and sister.  He was a student in Sycamore schools and played football for SHS, graduating in 1972.

After high school he spent time with family working in California before returning home to start his career.  He first became a plumber in DeKalb's Local then transferred to Local 501, where he served Northern Illinois University.  He was loved by many of his colleagues and passionate about his work. Dennis retired in 2016 after 25 years of service to the University.

In retirement, Dennis enjoyed the simple things in life: gardening, fishing, shooting, car shows, meticulously caring for his lawn, and most of all spending time with his grandkids.  He could be spotted in full camo at the Sportsmen's Club on many Saturday mornings, or out and about on an afternoon drive around town.  He was a great help to his family, always stopping by to visit his mom or take an early-morning or last-minute "babysitting" job with his grandkids. Dennis never said no when it came to the people he loved.

Dennis is survived by his children Stacey (Lance Higham), Ryan (Kristin), and Justin; grandchildren Riley and Kahley Higham, Gracen and Liam Cardinali; his mother Della Cardinali; and siblings Charles (Patricia) Cardinali, Daniel (Ginny) Cardinali, Donna (Bruce) Hardesty, and John (Chris) Cardinali as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father Daniel Cardinali.

A walk-through memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, January 28 ^th , from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Butala Funeral Home and Crematory, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL. 60178.  Facial coverings, social distancing and a total of 25 guests will be allowed in funeral home at one time.

Please visit www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com to sign the online guest book.