Dennis Flavin

Dennis grew up in Minneapolis, the son of Harold and Dorothy Flavin, alongside his beloved siblings Jerry, Richard (Dick), Michael, Mary and William (Bill). While hanging out at the Forum Cafeteria, he met the love of his life, Marcella Rose Snaza. The two eloped to Florida and began a lifelong love story that spanned decades, raising their family first in Florida and later in Richfield and Champlin, Minnesota. Marcella remained the light of his life—his true north and greatest blessing.

A hardworking and self-made man, Dennis built a successful tile contracting company that supported his large family. His love of social interactions (and his bad back) lead him to a second career at bar tending. Dennis was one of the main bartenders at the leading sports bar at the time – Duff’s in downtown Minneapolis. For a time, Dennis worked a crazy number of hours every day to support his growing family – tile setter by day, bartender at night. His involvement with Duff’s eventually lead him to own his own bar - Flavin’s Pub, a beloved pub in Little Falls, Minnesota. He was a born hustler and a natural philanthropist—always diving headfirst into causes and community efforts with enthusiasm, humor, and heart. His generosity and optimism touched countless lives.

Dennis’s Catholic faith guided every part of his life. He embodied kindness, service, and gratitude. He lived each day with the belief that helping others was both a duty and a joy. His circle of friends—including lifelong companions Rosemary and Jaime Calva, Roy and Deb Hitchcock, and Buzz and Molly Anderson—became an extension of his family.

Dennis was the proud father of nine children: Denise † (Roger) Willenbring, Thomas (Jeanne) Flavin, Shawn (Barbara) Flavin, Angela (Jeff †) Sele, Gloria (Patrick) Bauer, Caroline (Jimmy) Sansovich, Kelly (Randy) Miller, John (Jennifer) Flavin, and Erin Flavin (James Leonardo). His children, their spouses, and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his pride and joy. He loved them all deeply and celebrated every milestone with unbridled pride.

His grandchildren include Dan Willenbring, Joe Willenbring, Patrick Flavin, Scott Flavin, Keeley Flavin, Mike Flavin, Melissa Anez, Jack Flavin †, Josh Flavin, Ryan Sele, Christopher Sele, Jillian Baldwin, Jennifer Gagas, Alex Bauer, Lucas Sansovich, James Sansovich, Allison Dallager, Rose Miller, Nicholas Miller, Emily Miller, Mia Flavin, Eva Flavin, Roman Leonardo, and Marcella Leonardo. With many great and great, great grandchildren.

Dennis found joy in simple pleasures—playing cards and cribbage, golfing with friends, sharing a good laugh, and always lending a helping hand. His warmth, humor, and boundless energy made him unforgettable to all who knew him.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at St. Vincent de Paul in Osseo, Minnesota. Visitation 9:30, Mass at 10:30 with remembrance and celebration luncheon to follow.

Dennis Hugh Flavin will be remembered as a man of faith, love, and laughter—a husband devoted to his sweetheart, a father immensely proud of his family, and a friend to all. His legacy lives on in the kindness he gave so freely and in the joy he brought to every room.

As the Irish say:

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.”