Dennis Edward Nystrom, 78, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on the morning of Saturday, March 21, 2026, surrounded by his family and loved ones. He lost his battle with pancreatic cancer, but fought hard and with immense courage until the very end.
Dennis was born on October 6, 1947, the son of Evar Walter Nystrom and Marie Elizabeth (Ross) Nystrom. He built a long and dedicated career at Hallmark Cards, eventually retiring after 42 years of service.
On October 30, 1982, Dennis was united in marriage to Cheryl Doonan. She survives at the home. The two shared a wonderful life together, and in their retirement years, they loved hitting the road to travel the country together as “Snow Birds.”
In addition to his beloved wife, Cheryl, Dennis leaves behind a loving family, including his children: Paul Nystrom of Lawrence, KS; Denise Nystrom of Belton, MO; Kenny Nystrom and his wife, Liz, of Perry, KS; Chellie Doonan of Lawrence, KS; and Nichole Doonan and Bob of Lecompton, KS. His wonderful legacy will continue to live on through his 10 cherished grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends for a visitation and gathering to celebrate Dennis’s life on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home in Lawrence.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Lawrence Humane Society or the Lawrence Cancer Center, which may be sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, 601 Indiana, Lawrence, KS 66044.
