Dennis Ray Tobenski

Dennis “Denny” R. Tobenski, of Kankakee, Illinois, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 10, 1953, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Floyd and Geraldine (Denault) Tobenski. On August 4, 1979, Dennis married the love of his life, Janice (Smith) Tobenski, at St. James in Irwin, Illinois. Together they shared many years of love, devotion, and treasured memories. Dennis enjoyed a successful career as a Certified Public Accountant before retiring. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and willingness to help others. Outside of work, Dennis embraced life through his many passions. He had a lifelong love of music and was an accomplished guitarist, performing with the band The Rising Sons. He also enjoyed playing golf, fishing, woodworking, riding motorcycles, and photography, where he captured countless memories while photographing many weddings over the years. Above all, Dennis cherished his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Janice Tobenski; his sons, Dennis M. Tobenski and his wife, Darien Shulman, of Astoria, New York, and Denton Tobenski of Nashville, Tennessee; his sister, Pam Kennedy; his brother, Randy Tobenski and his wife, Jill; and many dear brothers- and sisters-in-law, including Mark and Ruth Smith, Marsha Smith, Monica and Max Brigham, Marty and Christi Smith, Rob Hensley, Rex and Dionne, Dick and Dolores Smith, Bonnie Draper, Connie Dionne, Marshall and Luke Smith, and Bill Kennedy. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Geraldine Tobenski, and his sisters, Vicki Hensley and Bonnie Draper. Dennis will be remembered for his kindness, his quiet sense of humor, his musical talent, and the joy he found in spending time with those he loved. Whether he was playing guitar, casting a fishing line, working with his hands in the shop, or behind the camera preserving special moments, he approached everything with dedication and heart. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 8th, 2026, with burial at St. James Cemetery. He leaves behind a legacy of love, music, friendship, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Dennis Ray Tobenski

September 10, 1953 - August 1, 2026