Denis E. Floyd

Heaven has gained another angel … after a long illness Denis Floyd entered his heavenly home on January 22, 2026. Born on November 6, 1947, Denis was well-known and well-loved throughout the places he called home in the Fox Valley and Las Vegas.

Affectionately known as “Fonz” or “Cowboy,” Denis had a larger-than-life personality. His humor, infectious chuckle, and endless stories brought joy to everyone around him. He was a natural entertainer, always ready with a good joke or a tale that left his listeners smiling. He was a man of generous spirit and heart. For many years, Denis enjoyed supporting children’s causes especially those that collected gifts/bikes for less fortunate children.

Denis began his career in law enforcement with the Ripon Police Department, where he became the first Sergeant in the department’s history. Denis designed the department’s police patch and was recognized by President Nixon for his design. He later served as Chief of Police in Green Lake — a role that gave rise to one of his favorite stories: the time he and his team successfully fended off a biker gang that tried to storm into Green Lake after one of their members had been arrested. He proudly served 7 years with the National Guard which included being called in for the 1968 Milwaukee Riot.

After moving to Las Vegas, he worked security at the Flamingo Hilton and Dunes Oasis before his work at the Nevada Test Site as a Sensitive Assignment Specialist. After returning to Wisconsin, Denis continued his work in security for Kimberly-Clark. A lifelong learner, he pursued continuing education and earned numerous certifications in law enforcement, private security, and investigative studies throughout his lifetime.

Denis enjoyed his yearly visits with his lifelong friend Jeffery “Monty”, a friendship that began while working together at the Nevada Test Site. Denis and Monty were brothers in spirit. A devoted Green Bay Packers fan, Denis also enjoyed boating and fishing and had a deep appreciation for Country and Western music and Western movies.

Denis is survived by, his daughter, Stephanie (David Curtis) Floyd of Hickory, Kentucky, and son, Chad (Kyrsten) Floyd of Tucson, Arizona along with grandchildren Sage (fiancé Katie Wyble) Floyd and Kaya Floyd, in addition to his brother, Roger (Barb) Floyd. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence, Sr. and Berneice Floyd and siblings Eileen Floyd, Ruth Eiring, Ellen Sobralski, Lawrence, Jr. “Chuck” Floyd, Earl Floyd, Mary Jo Floyd, Jean (special brother-in-law Clarence “Salty”) Salzman, and Roy Floyd.

The family would like to give special thanks to Paula Jones for being Denis’ friend and helper once he returned to Ripon and to his personal care attendants, nurses, and doctors at Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital along with Compassus Hospice.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.