Dennis James Ahnen - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

Dr. Dennis James Ahnen, born November, 1946 in Wakefield, Michigan, died August, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. Dennis passed away after a year-long battle with appendiceal cancer. He lived a full life, surrounded by family, including the love of his life and wife of fifty years, Carol (Petar), daughters Gina (Andy Subudhi), Megan (Matt Faga) and Nicole (Ben Jacobs). His seven grandchildren adored him, and he delighted in watching them grow and develop their own personalities. Drew, Asha, Sloan, Peter, Charlie, Jack and Cole will continue his legacy with their intellectual curiosity, bright smiles, and love of baseball.

Dennis spent his childhood with his parents, Eleanor and Charles Ahnen, and brothers Charles and David, in towns from Mountain Home, Idaho to the island of Guam while his father served in the Air Force. Dennis and Carol starting dating when he was a senior at Waterford Township High School, where his family had returned. After high school, his father was transferred to Florida, so he went to Florida State University, where he studied mathematics and stayed an additional semester to complete all the medical school requirements. Then, he joined Carol back in Michigan to attend Wayne State University for medical school. He completed his internship, residency and chief residency at the Detroit Medical Center and came to the University of Colorado for his Gastroenterology Fellowship. After a short detour at Stanford University as a Research Fellow and Visiting Scholar, Dennis returned to the University of Colorado where he built his illustrious academic medical career.

Dennis dedicated his clinical career to the service of Veterans, for whom he was a pioneer in promoting colorectal cancer prevention. Because of his vision and leadership, the Denver VA Medical Center has risen as a national example in cancer screening. Dennis has made innumerable contributions to improving the practice of medicine with his transformative research and tireless advocacy at the local, state and national level. The cruel irony of his cancer was not lost on Dennis, who skirted colorectal cancer by diligently adhering to intensive colonoscopy surveillance, where he had nearly cancerous polyps removed on several occasions. Dennis recognized how much work remains in our pursuit of cancer prevention.

Dennis has received the highest honors in his field, including the American Gastroenterological Association William Beaumont Prize, which is a prestigious award commemorating significant contributions to advance the care of patients. He received Lifetime Achievement Awards from both the Collaborative Group of the Americas on Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancers and the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable, encapsulating his lifelong commitment to translating his scientific contributions to tangible societal improvements in colorectal cancer prevention. There are many more accolades that will forever cement his mark in the medical field. Most importantly, Dennis was a kind, generous and inspiring collaborator and mentor who shaped generations of medical professionals across disciplines and specialties around the world. His medical legacy lives on in the sparkle he has left with many.

Dennis loved his work, his colleagues, and the opportunities his career created for his family.He did two sabbaticals, one at the Imperial Cancer Research Fund in London, England (1990-91) and one at the Ludwig Institute in Melbourne, Australia (2005-06). He was never one to turn down an adventure, and would say, with a glint in his eye, “That sounds fun, let’s do that.” Those years were spent traveling and meeting new friends, as well as working on research he was passionate about. As an acclaimed international speaker, he would take Carol, one of his daughters, or the whole family. Carol and his daughters cherish the memories they have of those special trips and the love of travel it instilled in each of them.

Dennis loved baseball starting at a young age. He played on the Air Force baseball team in Guam through high school, and he continued at Florida State for a year. As an adult, he joined a variety of teams and leagues in Denver, including and Over 50-Baseball league. Dennis finally became a “professional” infielder at the Rockies Baseball Fantasy Camp, where he earned the Ice Man Award for being “cool under pressure”, but in fact it was for the ice he required for his aches and pains.

On a personal level, Dennis had a curiosity for everything, and everyone. He asked questions (if he were writing this, he might ask “too many questions?”), and he had a genuine interest in almost any topic and every person, which made others feel important and valued. He saw each person as an individual, and appreciated each individual's unique qualities. He had a zest for life, loved a good laugh, and he brought a smile to any situation. In his final months, he celebrated his time with family with themed Sunday-night parties—complete with costumes--celebrating his 50-year marriage to Carol, and his many hobbies including fly-fishing and baseball. He also loved reading, hiking in the mountains, and making trips to visit with family and friends to Michigan, California, and around the world. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family.

To view the remembrance, visit the link below. The program begins at about 5min 30secs.

https://vimeo.com/event/315133/videos/464589213/

Be prepared to answer Dennis’ favorite question, “Anyone know what time it is?” with a gin and tonic (or beverage of your choice) toast at the end.

Order of events:
Welcome: Carol Ahnen
Ahnen Daughters: Gina, Megan, Nicole

Overview of life, work, family: Swati Patel

Football vs Baseball Introduction: Son-in-law Andy Subudhi

Football vs Baseball-clip: George Carlin
The Early Years: Bill Brown
Growing up and family life: Mike Nolan
Family slideshow
The Adventures: Finlay Macrae
7th inning stretch intro: Son-in Law Matt Faga

7th inning stretch: Take Me Out to the Ballgame: The Grandkids
The scientist, advocate and humanitarian: David Lieberman
Gin and Tonic Intro: Son in Law Ben Jacobs

How to make a perfect Gin and Tonic: Dennis

All: Group G&T Toast

Since we can not give you a hug and share stories in person, our family would love for you to write a tribute on this page, or participate in a video montage to celebrate and remember the best husband and Dad, Dennis. You can record a video on the link below that will be available for the Ahnen family. We appreciate all of your support and look forward to hearing your stories.

https://www.tribute.co/remembering-dennis/?utm_cam...

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:

The University of Colorado Division of Gastroenterology Ahnen Visiting Lectureship Fund
Denver Research Institute
Attn: Judith Jung
3401 Quebec St.
Suite 5000
Denver, CO 80207
Checks payable to: Denver Research Institute--Ahnen Lectureship in the memo

The National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable

To make a donation by credit card, please call 1.800.227.2345 (24/7) and ask to make a memorial donation allocated to the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable. Please also notify NCCRT that a donation has been made by emailing dionne.christopher@cancer.org.

To make a donation by check, please make the check out to the American Cancer Society and indicate “donation to NCCRT in honor of Dennis Ahnen” in the memo line. Please mail the check to 250 Williams Street; Atlanta, GA 30303 and notify NCCRT that a donation has been made by emailing dionne.christopher@cancer.org.Questions? Please contact Dionne Christopher at dionne.christopher@cancer.org or 678.772.0899 (M-F, 9-5pm ET)

The American Gastroenterological Association Research Fund

http://www.gastro.org/ahnen

Tributes

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February 8, 2021

In 1978, I started internship at Hutzel Hospital in Detroit where Dennis was a senior resident in Medicine and the smartest one in the group. Everybody loved him as he was always humble,kind and willing to help.
Over 20 years ago, while visiting Denver with my family I called him to say hello and he invited the whole family for dinner at his house the next day. We all remember the warmth with which Carol and the family welcomed us . Subsequently, I received the annual Xmas letters for several years which were always so funny.
I just learnt this afternoon about his passing away via the wonderful memorial tribute authored by Drs Patel and Lieberman in Gastroenterology. Those of us lucky enough to have known the family can attest , everything in that article is so true. We are all left to cherish those memories.

December 3, 2020

I am so unbelievably sad to learn of Dr. Ahnen's passing. He was a special person and I will forever treasure my interactions with him. I was blessed to give a presentation with him once while I was still a student, and I was a bit star-struck that this amazing doctor was so kind and down to earth and willing to help me learn. He had a heart for the patient community as well, and his contribution to patient education and advocacy will always be appreciated. When I think back to all of the people I have met in my career, he is at the top of my list of the ones who made the biggest impact on me. I just can't say enough good things about him. I'd like to extend my deepest sympathies to his family as well as my utmost jealousy (in a good way) that you were blessed enough to call him family.

October 15, 2020

Hello, I’m Bill Brugge. I was a GI fellow with Dennis and I stayed in contact with Dennis and Carol over the (many) years. My wife and I got to know Dennis and Carol in 1977 when we soon realized we both had one year olds. We used to play bridge at each other’s houses and let Gina and Shawn run free. At the end of our first year, we had to decide on a research project. Although I never told Dennis, I planned to work with Bill Brown. But Dennis best me to the punch. Instead I worked with Fred Kern on a great pancreas project and this changed my career. For the next forty years I worked on diseases of the pancreas. I thank Dennis for the opportunity. At every DDW, we would talk for 5 minutes and stay connected. It would have been fun if I stayed in Denver.

October 5, 2020

We are deeply sorry for your tremendous loss. Scott and I both admired Dennis so very much and were always touched by his love, laughter, intelligence, sense of adventure, and his amazing ability to make people feel special and accepted. We will always keep him and the rest of you in our hearts. We wish you great peace and comfort.

October 5, 2020

Hi Carol and family, what a lovely memorial it was and what a great job you and the girls did. Mike and I watched from Aussie and learnt so much more about Dennis...base ball! We were left with a deep appreciation of not only was he a committed doctor and researcher, but also a great listener, curious, and loving family person. A great loss! Our thoughts are with you.

October 5, 2020

So grateful for the warm and loving tribute to Dennis, husband, father, grandfather, colleague and friend. We ache at losing him, but his kind, decent and playful spirit inspire us all. He lived his life with great joy, and used it to show us that love, respect, curiosity and a light spirit shine the way to a peaceful and fulfilling life. That bright, wise twinkle in his eye will never die.

October 5, 2020

Dennis was one of our truly good friends. We met shortly after our youngest daughter started high school and she and Megan Ahnen instantly became best friends. We have spent many happy hours with Dennis and Carol going to George Washington sporting events, Rockies games, pie and ping pong and dinners out together. He was always one of the most pleasant, humorous and cheerful people for us to be around. We, like the Ahnen family will miss him terribly. We know that we will stay close to all the other members of the family as we remember Dennis’s spirit. As everyone knows, he was a great baseball fan and he hit a home run by being simply just who he was – a great friend, a top notch father and grandfather, an outstanding clinician and a world-class researcher.

October 4, 2020

Carol, Gina, Meghan and Nicole (and husbands and children),
What a wonderful tribute you produced for Dennis. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him and recall fond memories. He was the best, and your readings were a perfect match for that.
Rick and Pat Boland

October 4, 2020

Dennis was one of the founders of the Colon Cancer Family Registry as leader of the Colorado recruitment. He embodied the spirit of the Registry: collegial, collaborative, and conducting high-quality research, while always keeping his eyes firmly on his overarching goal to reduce the burden of colorectal cancer throughout the world. But even more than that, it was how he interacted with us all that was so affecting—always with a beaming smile and that ever-present twinkle in his eye.

We'll miss you Dennis. The Colon Cancer Family Registry

October 4, 2020

There are so many great thing I could tell you about this man I was so fortunate to call my uncle. Family was so important to him. Almost every summer we would spend time together in Waterford, Michigan. Pool fun with the family at my parents. Sleep overs and game night at aunt Kathy’s and uncle Tom’s (some epic uno games), to Mackinac Island trip, fishing at grandpa Petra’s, Big Boy restaurant breakfast, or just tagging along for the day we’re every they were going to be. Spending time with my uncle Dennis, aunt Carol, and all my cousins was important to me. Family was also something that was so important to me and fitting in all the time I could with them was a cherished memory. For all the wonderful thing he did in his life he never lost focus to what was most important, family. When my spouse and I moved to Colorado he welcomed us with open arms and even jumped in when health issues need a little attention. There are several things I have leaned in life from my uncle. Family first, what you want in life you must work hard for it and it will be achievable, and whatever you do in this life enjoy it and have fun. There was always a smile on his face and laughter in room with his presence when we would be together. I can tell you the amount of love I have for my uncle Dennis, aunt carol, to my cousins Gina, Megan, Nicole, to their husbands, and children. This is a family that I am proud to call my family. You will be missed truly but never forgotten and always wonderful stories to tell at get togethers with so many happy memories.

October 3, 2020

Such an incredible life and impressive career coupled with great memories shared from so many who Dennis touched. The stories and photos brought a bright smile as I am sure did for many others. Love and Blessings to the Ahnen family.

October 3, 2020

Such a beautiful remembrance for Dennis - I am so struck by what an extraordinary life Dennis lived. I can't think of anyone I know who has left or will leave such a legacy - of course through his research and as a physician, but I think more importantly through his family and friends and all the individual people whose life he touched. I want to echo what many others have said - what stood out most to me about Dennis was his sincere curiosity about everything and everyone, what a great listener he was. I am not an academician as he was, but my paper on colon cancer in women was written and published because of Dennis and I'll always appreciate his support. Dennis lives on in so many ways and for me, I hope to listen more and be more present as my way of keeping his spirit alive. Job and I are so grateful to have known him.

October 3, 2020

When I heard of Dennis's diagnosis and ultimate passing my heart sank. I have such fond memories of having lunch or coffee with Dennis at our annual GI meeting (DDW) where he would always ask me what he can do to help with my career development. When I mentor (Randy Burt) retired from the University of Utah and I was contemplating leaving for other institutions, I reached out to Dennis to explore his thoughts on where I should go. He provided not only a friendly ear but also advise on putting my family first in every decision as that will be present long after my career ends. Such good advice and something he also prescribed too. I will miss him greatly. May he rest in eternal peace.

October 3, 2020

It was such an honor to have known and worked with such an amazing man. He always made you feel so worthy and appreciated. I will forever miss him. Many thoughts to Carol and his whole family.
Love, Amy Huntsman

October 3, 2020

We were so blessed to get to know Dennis and Carol through his Nolan cousins. The times we spent in Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas were some of the happiest of our lives - filled with laughter and friendship. We loved Dennis’ sense of humor and obvious sense of joy. His love of Carol and his family was clear and his happiness brought happiness to everyone. We’ll miss you Dennis.
Love, Karen and Jack McGrath

October 3, 2020

Dennis was about the sweetest guy in the whole world. I visited the University a couple of times and Dennis was my host. He made the visits so warm and personal. One weekend my wife Leslie and I stayed with Dennis and Carol, had dinner at the house with some UC colleagues, went to a Rockies game, saw Denver - just magical. As a colon cancer investigator Dennis was really an original thinker, and he asked me a lot of questions over the years that I didn't know the answer to. Mostly because there was no answer that anyone has found yet but he always seemed to be able to think of the questions that were right at the edge of what is known. I learned a lot of medical stuff from him, learned a lot more about how to be good person by watching him, enjoyed his friendship immensely, and miss him. He is a role model, one I know I won't be able to live up to, but every moment I remember to try is one not wasted.

October 3, 2020

I so appreciate the tribute I just attended. Thank you to all the participants for such a meaningful time together. I loved seeing Dennis' long hair and sideburns! And the comments of his always making you feel like you were important and worth listening to was my personal experience as well. How he managed to visit with me along with ALL the other guests over ping-pong at Thanksgiving always amazed me. And of course, his life partner, Carol! who has been such a good friend and also amazes me. So present and attentive. He is missed and will always be remembered. Love to you both.

October 3, 2020

Carol - Thanx for the wonderful and inspiring tribute. Dennis was such a unique person - so kind, generous and fun, and we will always treasure the fond memories of time together. We are thinking of Dennis, you and your family.

October 3, 2020

What an incredible husband, father, grandfather and human being. He certainly knew how to connect with people in a very special way.

October 3, 2020

Life takes many twists and turns, and Dennis was there at one of the turns in my life, like the Scarecrow in the Wizard of Oz - "you could go this way, or you could go that way." He suggested I apply for a job at the University, for which he was on the search committee. I decided to follow the turn in the road, and I just completed my 25th year there. The celebration of Dennis's life was a wonderful tribute to a truly remarkable, kind and generous man. Thank you for sharing it with all 200+ of Dennis's admirers. Much love to Dennis's family.

October 3, 2020

Carol, such a wonderful man and a great tribute this afternoon. Everyone's remembrance's were touching and from the heart. Bless you and the girls along with the grandkids. May they all follow in their grandpa's footprints

Tom

October 3, 2020

What an inspiration of Love and Joy Dennis was and is and will remain!
Ved and Katharine

October 3, 2020

Like so many of the friends that my wife, Jean and met in our middle(?) years, we were introdiced to the Ahnens through the friendship of our kids - here this is our Kate and Meghan Ahnen. I am glad to be seconding the ongoing warm remembrances of Dennis and the happy times with the Ahnens. Sail on, Dennis!

October 3, 2020

I came to CU in 1984 where I had the pleasure of meeting Dennis while I was an intern at the VA. Thanks to Dennis, Bill Brown, John Goff, Joel Levine and John Singleton, I was accepted into the fellowship program in 1988. I must have done something right, because Dennis and crew asked me to join them as junior faculty in 1990. We spent years playing co-ed softball (fondly remembering the Gall Batters), sharing in other division social events (with Carol and my wife Sharon -- she adored both of them), sharing stories about our young children and their goings on. He supported my early academic career for which I was most grateful, but academcis wasn't quite cutting it.
I switched to private practice at St.Anthony's in 1992. Dennis and I occasionally saw one another at Gut Club. I think we reconnected much more closely in 2009 at the first Undy Run for Colon Cancer and we both championed this cause while he stayed engaged with the Colorado Colorectal Preventive Task Force. After 23 years in private practice on the west side of town, Dennis got wind that I had retired in 2015. He scolded me in jovial terms: "You're too young to retire...Would you consider coming back to the VA to restart motility and advanced procedures." I graciously accepted and in doing so, I was able to rekindle a valuable relationship. I am so very grateful to Dennis for all of his contributions to my world, and to Carol and family for hosting this tribute today.

October 3, 2020

I first met Dennis 14 years ago. He took me to lunch on my recruitment visit to the University of Colorado. I remember being amazed that this giant in our field would spend his time not only taking me to lunch but asking “what can I do to help your career if you come here.” It turned out that Dennis had a great impact on my career. The two most fun papers I published were the ones I wrote with Dennis. He gave me tremendous professional advice to navigate the difficulties of an academic career and was always engaged with me in our fellows research in progress conference. He was unbelievably generous with his time, and I will always be grateful that he played such an important role in my life and career.

October 3, 2020

We all feel such loss, because there was so much to lose. We were fortunate to share a daycare provider with Carol and Dennis at Stanford, and follow them to the University, Park Hill and summers at Virginia Vale. His legacy lives on in the people he touched; his family, friends, peers, and patients. We all would have liked a little more time, but no one put more value into the time he had.

October 3, 2020

Dennis was such a special and creative man with so many wonderful gifts. I especially loved his humor and his writing. He could bring laughter to the most difficult of situations. I always looked forward to his holiday card. I will never forget opening one during the Trump years where half the letter was redacted at the behest of Carol. I couldn't resist contacting him and requesting an unredacted version. Much to my surprise he sent it and it was even funnier. During these weighty time I will miss the light and wisdom of his words.

October 3, 2020

Dennis was my dad's (Dr. Bill Brown) best friend and I will always remember his great smile and love of baseball. The three of us and my brother Ed went to many Rockies games over the years and Dennis participated in the Rockies Win Prediction pool I organized (always predicting on the optimistic side!). He loved sharing what Carol and his daughters were up to and delighted each time a grandchild was born. He will be greatly missed and I trust he is watching over his family while playing baseball pain-free in the big baseball diamond in the sky! The entire Brown family sends their condolences to the Ahnen family. - Stephany Brown

October 3, 2020

I met Dennis over 20 years ago when he and Tim Byers hired me to manage the Colon Cancer Family Registry in Colorado. Though I did not know it at the time, that opportunity changed the trajectory of my career, and it allowed me the opportunity to work alongside Dennis ever since. I am so grateful. There are many things that I love and admire about Dennis. The two things that I will remember most are his passion for his life's work and his generosity. I always knew why Dennis did what he did – he was driven by a genuine desire to push science, prevent cancer, and improve people’s lives. Knowing this about someone who was my boss, mentor and colleague was important to me and it motivated me to be better. Dennis was incredibly generous - with his time, praise and support. He lifted me up (and so many others around him), by making me feel important, smart and capable. He invited me to the table and was there to help if I needed it. Dennis was also a tremendous support to my family. Our meetings invariably started with him asking me ‘how are those boys?’ (my husband and I have 3 boys), which usually led to a conversation about baseball, fishing and life events.

I was lucky to have Dennis in my life. I will miss him. Much love to Carol, the girls and your beautiful families. Jan

October 3, 2020

Dennis was the reason why I went into Gastroenterology—some 40 years ago. He was the GI Fellow; Jack Schaeffer was the attending and I was a medical resident rotating through GI at Denver General.
Dennis was incredibly enthusiastic and he had a gentle and caring attitude with patients. It was because of working with him for just a month that was enough for me to decide to pursue a career in Gastroenterology.
Over the years he has helped me with many patients with hereditary colon cancer issues. He was always generous and giving of his time and expert knowledge. I was pleased and privileged to say I knew this man who made so many major contributions to medical science and to the care of so many patients.
It was also great fun working with Dennis and being his teammate on the Gallbatters!! Certainly a life well lived. Regards and condolences to his family!

Hey Dennis . Your family and friends and colleagues miss you dearly. Hope your shaggin'flyballs , maybe catchin' a few trout and probably reading some recent medical journals. Carry on old Friend.

October 2, 2020

John always talked about Dennis When I finally met Dennis and Carol I realized why he was so fond of them. I am so glad I got to know Dennis over the last several years. His kindness and joy were contagious. He has left a giant hole in so many lives but also so many memories. We love you Carol.
Pat and John

October 2, 2020

Dennis and I shared two passions: gastroenterology and baseball. Our baseball bond included playing together on the "Gallbatters" and "Dr. D' Dogs" plus our mutual love of the Rockies. I feel that Dennis was responsible for the trajectory of my career in gastroenterology. On my first day as a GI Fellow he handed me the endoscope he was about to use on a patient and said "you do it". The patient was bleeding from esophageal varices and I was hooked on taking care of these patients and improving their outcomes since that day. Dennis went to work in the lab with Bill Brown and become an internationally recognized expert in colon cancer. His passing is going to leave a hole in my soul. He was a great person and will be remembered for a long time.

October 2, 2020

Although the time I was fortunate enough to spend with Dennis was far too brief, I will be forever grateful for every minute of it! When my cousin Andy, was fortunate enough to fall in love with and marry sweet Gina (Dennis’ oldest daughter), I was immediately swept into the Ahnen family with open arms! I always felt like Dennis was the ringleader of this effort as he never failed to greet me at the door with that contagious smile, a warm hug and some sort of fanciful beverage that he just couldn’t wait to share. I will never forget his enthusiastic insistence that I participate in whatever mischief was afoot, be it ping pong tournaments (where to Dennis' delight I was routinely humiliated by 8 year olds), themed mystery parties, or dissecting the Thanksgiving Turkey’s innards. (Incidentally, I will never again make Thanksgiving gravy the same way after Dennis took the time to school me in the fine art of adding the gizzards and neck meat into the mix). But I think what I have been impacted by the most was Dennis’ sheer delight in his family and friends, his knack for gathering amazing people together, and his ability to savor every moment. For all of his formidable intellect and accomplishment, he was immensely approachable and seemed to me to be about as playful, curious and young-at-heart as anyone I have ever encountered. Although his loss has left a far greater hole in my heart than I could have imagined, I take great comfort in knowing that he was able spread his particular brand of contagion to his children, their husbands and a good half a baseball team of grandchildren! The world is a far better place on so many levels because of this wonderful man, and I know his life and spirit will continue to live strong in those he loved so well!

October 2, 2020

Dennis was a such a great guy, and I'm grateful that I had the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from him. I will miss his friendly smile, his sense of fun, his wit, his intelligence, and his encouragement, but most of all, I will miss sitting with him and talking science. He could get to the root of a problem so quickly and articulate it so concisely. I loved listening and learning as he and Al Malkinson would wrestle with a pressing scientific issue, Al the dreamer and Dennis the solver. My thoughts are with Dennis's family and the scientific community as we mourn his loss.

October 2, 2020

There are no words to express my sadness at the loss of this great man. I met Dennis is 1993, right after I was hired to be the project manager of the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial at UCCC. Dennis was welcoming and so supportive of our trial. The colorectal screening portion would never have been possible without his advocacy and support. I was lucky to be able to benefit from his expertise when I worked with the Colorado Colorectal Screening Program and as a volunteer with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. When he was commuting to Gastroenterology of the Rockies in Boulder, we were able to meet for lunch on occasion. He always spoke so lovingly of his family and he was so proud of them. He told me he had run the Undy RunWalk with a foley catheter and a legbag one year, which shows his determination and spirit!! (I hope he wouldn't mind me sharing that!!) I attended some of his community talks on colon cancer and he had an ability to make medical information understandable to the general public. I will always remember his smile, his kindness and his passion for the prevention and early detection of colon cancer. Dennis, I hope that you knew what an impact you had on SO many lives: colleagues, friends, patients and more. You are missed by all.

October 1, 2020

I had the good fortune to work with Dr. Ahnen in 2009 and 2010. He was such a lovely man, always with a cheery smile. His love for working with Vets was palpable. I am so sorry for your family's loss.

September 30, 2020

Dear Carol,

We are so sorry for you and your family’s loss. Dennis was a wonderful friend, colleague, and mentor. He touched our lives in many positive ways and we will alway cherish his memory. We first met Dennis, you and your lovely daughters when we moved to Denver from Cincinnati in the early 90’s to join Cell Pathways. You all made us feel so welcome. We remember coming to your home for dinner, playing ping-pong, talking about the new Rockies baseball team and, of course, science. I can’t put into words how Dennis inspired my research which continues to this day and, God willing, for many years to come. Dennis always had an intriguing question, followed up with his engaging smile. While regrettably we lost touch after moving I was so happy to reconnect with Dennis in his last year, even though it was under the saddest of circumstances. Nancy and I join you in celebrating his life, and know that you must have so many wonderful memories to cherish. One of my favorite memories with Dennis was when we played hooky from the lab and escaped to the ball park on a sunny Colorado afternoon.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and family.

Gary and Nancy Piazza

September 30, 2020

I met Dennis at the Four Corners meeting in Colorado back in 2008 and recall thinking, "Here is someone special." Even now, just looking at Dennis's pictures make me happy and sad at the same time. Sad because I miss him, but happy, because you can't look at Dennis's contagious smile without enjoying a bit of that warmth he tended to radiate. I'm grateful to have known him, enjoyed lovely meals with he and Carol, to have heard his amazing laugh, to have taken a ride in his convertible and to have benefitted from his unique ability to make everyone feel like a friend. Carol -- I'm grateful that you and Dennis were such amazing role models as a couple who truly loved and adored each other. When my kids are a little older, I hope to follow your and Dennis's example of traveling with each on work trips. What a wonderful way to stay connected. Dennis, thank you for always making me feel welcomed and valued. I miss you, my friend.

September 27, 2020

Dear Carol, I was so saddened to read of Dennis's passing. I remember him, and you, so very fondly. He was so kind, and did make me feel special in his eyes. One of the favorite parts of my career was my focus on screening and prevention of cancer as a faculty member in general internal medicine. Dennis was so supportive of this, and so encouraging when I chose to become a medical oncologist. I continue to savor an interest in prevention, and I will always think of Dennis when I think of colon cancer prevention. My loving wishes to you and your family, Rob

September 25, 2020

The smile in his pictures is timeless. Throughout college and in the few times I I was able to be with him, his smile was there; a man engaged in life and with those in his presence. I can still feel ihis light. My most brilliant friend.

September 24, 2020

I only knew Dr Ahnen through our cancer committee but could tell what a bright light he was as a person. I very much admired him and am so very sorry for your loss, I am sure he was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, physician and friend. I saw him as a true patient advocate.
My deepest condolences.

September 24, 2020

Dear Ahnen family,

I met Dennis several years back when he joined our Cancer Committee and Cancer Conferences at Saint Joseph Hospital where I serve as Medical Director. Dennis quickly became a mentor to me and was such an integral member of our team. His expertise, wisdom, and probing questions pushed all of us to be at the top of our game. Despite his accomplishments, he was always humble and truly cared about everyone in the room. He had a great sense of humor and we would often talk baseball which I also love. In conversations that we shared over the years, his love for his family was apparent. He was a true gem. I deeply miss him.

Dr. Greg Britt

September 12, 2020

I fondly remember working with Dennis when I was communications director for the CU Cancer Center in the 1990s and early 2000s. He always took the time to meet with me and explain his work in great detail. His warm and positive personality was always readily apparent, and it was a pleasure to help publicize his important work. I'm so glad I had the chance to catch up with him again last summer at Gina's neighborhood ice cream social. I've known Gina for several years, and it was quite a fun surprise to discover that I also knew her father!

September 10, 2020

I was lucky to work with Dennis for several years on various NCCRT and NIH projects related to cancer family history screening. He was one of the warmest, kindest, and most enthusiastic collaborators I have known (as well as obviously being one of the field's experts!) -- it was a delight to work along side him. He spoke often, and with great love, of his family, friends, community, and patients. My heart goes to all who mourn. He was a spectacular human being. His legacy will shine on through those, like me, who he inspired for years to come.

September 9, 2020

I was one of Dr. Ahnen's patients several years ago when I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. He walked me through genetic counseling to assess my risk as my brother was fighting the colorectal cancer which eventually took his life. He was a calm and supportive guide through this terrifying period. He was a wonderful doctor and from this tribute, I can only imagine also a wonderful family man and friend to many. I am glad we crossed paths in this life and offer my deepest sympathies for his loss.

September 7, 2020

Dennis and I first met in the late 1970s, when I was an internal medicine resident and he was doing the clinical year of his gastroenterology fellowship at what was then known as the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. A few years later, 1982-84, I had the good fortune for him to be my mentor during my two research years as a gastroenterology fellow at UCHSC. I will forever consider him to be one of the most honest and caring people I have ever known. I am honored to be his friend. His family has my love and empathy.

September 6, 2020

I had the privilege of knowing Dennis and his interests in genetic links to colon cancer while I worked on the Clinical faculty as an internist in Alamosa with a Community Health Center for 20 years. I had the opportunity to discuss with him the studies the University Epidemiology Department had been involved in, studying genetic links of Hispanics with diabetes and cardiovascular disease. I suggested he might want to look at colon cancer in Hispanics. He initially told me he did not think that would be feasible, but I peaked his curiosity and within a year he had me assisting with the research. He became my primary cheerleader, encouraging me to go into GI fellowship training, which I started in 2000 at the age of 50. Dennis was my mentor, my colleague, and my friend. The last time we spent together was at the Undee 500, where we walked and chatted about our lives. For his family and many friends, I share an Irish saying: "Death leaves a heartache that no one can heal, but love leaves memories that no one can steal." Dennis - You leave us all broken-hearted, but with so many fun memories!!! Thank you so much, and God bless!
Mike Firth

September 5, 2020

Dennis smiled with his eyes. I loved working with him, teaching with him, and playing with him. Our love for Dennis lives on. Tim

September 4, 2020

I am truly heartbroken. Dennis was a very special human being: kind, humble, caring, and lots of fun. My last in person conversation with Dennis was here in San Diego sharing a video of my granddaughter playing softball and hitting an inside-the-park home run. I can still remember his beautiful smile and how we both celebrated this event. I will forever be inspired by this wonderful man. Looking forward to toasting in celebration of his life.

September 3, 2020

After working with Dennis for more than 25 years, I will miss him terribly. He was a great colleague: knowledgeable, curious, helpful and hard working. But it was his personal qualities that also made him stand out: upbeat, energetic, humorous, and friendly. The country has lost a great gastroenterologist, and I've lost a wonderful friend.

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His Life

An Ambassador for Strength and Hope

November 22, 2020

“Dr. Dennis Ahnen was a not only a clinician and researcher in the fight against colorectal cancer, he was a dedicated and passionate advocate for survivors and their families. He was a true beacon in the CRC community, one who held us all to a higher standard in working together to expand colorectal cancer screening to all Americans while fighting for a cure. Dr. Ahnen will truly be missed by Fight Colorectal Cancer and our advocate community. We send our thoughts and love to his family as we honor his memory in the best way we can—by carrying out that highest of standards that he set, and passionately propelling forward the work that was his own life’s passion. He will be remembered as a hero and relentless champion.” – Anjee Davis

Fight CRC honors Dennis Ahnen with 2020 Andrew Giusti Memorial Award

Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC) has named Dr. Dennis Ahnen, Associate Professor Emeritus at the Colorado University Cancer Center, as the 2020 recipient of the prestigious Andrew Giusti Memorial Award. Each year this award is given to an outstanding advocate of medical, health, and scientific research. The award was established to honor advocates who have shown exceptional leadership in advancing our nation’s commitment to colorectal cancer research.

A world leader in colorectal cancer prevention and control, Dr. Ahnen joined the National Colorectal Cancer Round Table (NCCRT) in 2009 as co-chair of the Family History Task Force and stepped up to the NCCRT Steering Committee in 2014 where he has been a catalyst for change in early-age onset colorectal cancer (CRC) understanding and prevention.

Known affectionately as the Rear Admiral by his many friends in the CRC community, Dr. Ahnen held a faculty position at The Department of Veterans Affairs Eastern Colorado Health Care System for over 30 years. In 2016, he retired from the University of Colorado School of Medicine faculty as Professor of Medicine and was appointed Professor Emeritus at the University of Colorado School of Medicine the following year. After his retirement, Dr. Ahnen joined the staff of Gastroenterology of the Rockies in to help oversee their Genetics Program.

Renowned for taking an active research leadership role, Dr. Ahnen recalls the moment, as a Gastroenterology Fellow in his 30s, when he encouraged his lab partner to ‘provide a baseline normal’ colonoscopy for their CRC pioneering research work. The inevitable ‘reciprocal procedure’ resulted in the discovery of an advanced adenoma in young Dr. Ahnen’s colon, which would have almost certainly developed to become early-age onset colorectal cancer, further affirming his deep personal commitment to lead advances in early detection.

Dr. Ahnen describes advocating for CRC policy goals on Capitol Hill as one of the most impactful experiences of his life, becoming a committed spokesperson for the power of the unified survivor and provider voice.

“An individual with passion can make a difference. But with real teamwork, we can make a huge difference,” he said in his typically modest and unassuming manner. “The experience of a survivor is so different to that of a provider. It takes strength and guts go through chemo and sharing that story with lawmakers is crucial to seeing our ideas and effort come to fruition.”

Dr. Ahnen has been a mobilizing force within his home state of Colorado, helping to guide the Colorado Cancer Screening Program, a program of the University of Colorado Cancer Center, and connecting medical and survivor communities behind a meaningful Colorado Cancer Coalition agenda to improve screening rates and CRC legislation.

Andrea (Andi) Dwyer, Fight CRC’s Advisor for Research and Patient Education and a long-term colleague of Dr. Ahnen, who she describes as a friend and mentor, said: “Dennis holds a special place in the colorectal cancer community and his contribution extends far beyond his skills as a clinician, scientist, and leader. There is no more worthy recipient of this year’s award.”

In 2019, Dr. Ahnen was diagnosed with metastatic appendix cancer (which he stresses was outside of the parameters of his routine CRC screening protocols) in 2019. He remains a fierce advocate for preventive colorectal cancer screening, brandishing the words ‘strength’ and ‘hope’ on bands around his wrist, a fitting character portrayal of one of the Colorectal Cancer community’s finest leaders and best loved advocates.

Rear-Admiral Ahnen. The Colorectal Cancer Community salutes you.

3 thoughts on “AN AMBASSADOR FOR STRENGTH & HOPE”

whitney jones says:
August 24, 2020 at 5:35 pm
Dennis left a high water mark for all of us to strive for. His life embodied that of a true champion. Thank you for your work here and for all the lives you touched but may never meet.

Reply
Barbara Olson says:
July 23, 2020 at 2:16 pm
In 2017 I had bowel resection for reoccurring precancerous polyps. 12 inches above (ilium) to below appendix. Seven days later I had a spontaneous ventral hernia. From a sneeze. It was repaired twice with mesh. Now I have the descending colon caught in the hernia. I fear cancer but I cannot get anyone to do a colonoscopy. Family history of colon cancer. Any ideas?

Reply
Martha Raymond says:
June 9, 2020 at 9:56 am
Congratulations Dennis on this well-deserved recognition! Thank you for your continued leadership and guidance to our colorectal cancer community. And thank you for your friendship and mentorship these many, many years. Looking forward to future collaboration and enjoying many more laughs in the years to come. Best wishes always, Martha Raymond

Reply

Honoring Dr. Ahnen: Introducing Fight CRC’s Genetics and Family History Advisory Council

November 22, 2020

Genetics and Family History is a Priority in the Path to a CureFight CRC has intentionally focused on the impacts of genetics and family history for colorectal cancer (CRC) since inception. This work has grown with the help of strategic partnerships with the National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable (NCCRT), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), corporate partnerships, and the growing voice fo the advocate community.

A big voice in this work was the late Dr. Dennis Ahnen, a thought leader in genetic and familial syndromes and a member of Fight CRC’s medical advisory board. Dennis was a cancer prevention and control guru, co-creating several hereditary clinics in his home state of Colorado, and a world expert in cancer polyp prevention. To our great sadness, Dennis passed away in August 2020 and we dedicate this council in his honor.

Dr. Ahnen’s Work Continues Through the Genetics & Family History Advisory CouncilDr. Ahnen made a measurable impact on patients and their families. In all of his clinical and research endeavors, he stressed the need to ensure the work and priorities of CRC research and practice made a measurable impact. One of those areas in particular was identifying families at higher risk due to family history or genetic predisposition to CRC, and advocating for increased and earlier screening and better surveillance for that group.

Continuing this research in an effort to identify cancer risk and reduce early-age onset (EAO) CRC by educating about increased and earlier screening and connection to other cancers that may have similar genetic inheritance patterns, the goal of the Genetics and Family History Advisory Council is to passionately move this work ahead to save lives.

Catherine Marcum says:

October 2, 2020 at 3:18 pm

Wow! Thank you for listening to the passionate plea of those individuals and families with inherited risk colorectal cancer. One individual, monumental impact on cancer prevention and early detection.

Carol Ahnen says:

October 1, 2020 at 11:17 am

I can never thank you enough for the passion and dedication you have demonstrated throughout the years for the colon cancer cause. This has been an issue dear to Dennis’ heart and thank you so much for honoring him in this way. He would truly be touched; we all are truly touched. Sincerely, Carol Ahnen

Emily Piekut says:

October 1, 2020 at 12:32 pm

It was an honor to work with him. Sending lots of love to your family.

Stories of Kappa Sigma at Florida State

November 11, 2021

We did hold our Kappa Sigma gathering last weekend. We had 13 Brothers over for dinner on Friday and then most of us went to the game on Saturday. Check out the attached photo. We also spread Dennis' ashes on the ball field. We couldn't get to home plate since it was covered by a tarp, so we placed him at first base. He was a frequent topic of conversation all weekend. Your card was read and Dennis was toasted often. He was a special friend and brother, and we all reflected again on how much richer we were because of his having been in our lives. He was loved and cherished.
Dear Gina, Megan and Nicole,

More from your dad’s past.

Sunday afternoons were often special times around the Kappa Sigma House. We would all gather for a formal sit-down lunch (ties required), graciously prepared by our cooks, Ms. Anne Butler and Rebecca, who always went out of their way to make sure their boys were well taken care of.    T-bone steaks were often on the menu for Sunday lunch, but as good as Sundays were, so too were all the other days. BLT lunch days were always a favorite. Suffice it say - we ate well at the Kappa Sig House.

So, what to do after a pleasant lunch with a full afternoon of no classes ahead? Several opportunities would present themselves. Bridge was always a good choice. Depending on the time of year, anything to do with water – a pool, the coast, Wakulla Springs or a sinkhole - was popular, as was most any athletic or semi-athletic event. Organized or pick-up games of softball, basketball, tennis, dodge-ball, frisbee, blanket-toss, etc., etc., had their moments. However, one had to be careful with the athletics. It was after all Sunday – the day after Saturday night – and many constitutions were in fragile conditions.

I am not sure how it began, but a very pleasant Sunday alternative to highly vigorous activity came into being that we called spiking.   Some background: the Tallahasse-St. Marks Railroad (the first in Florida) began service in 1837 and provided a vital transportation link between Tallahassee and the coast, allowing cotton and timber to be easily delivered to the port. The first tracks were wooden and in 1856 were replaced with steel rails. Interestingly, in the late 1960s as one walked along the tracks it might be possible to find an old wooden spike, or more likely a newer steel one. In any event, this became the raison d’etre for a group of guys and gals to go wandering through the woods and along railroad tracks on beautiful fall and spring Sunday afternoons.   We were looking for spikes.

However, it didn’t take long for the adventure to escalate into more robust exploring. How much time can one really spend walking along railroad tracks? So, into the woods we would go. I should point out that the area south of Tallahassee is still underdeveloped and much of it is actually the Apalachicola National Forest. The point is, it would be a fun place to get off the beaten track except there was no track. Scrub, here we come!

We would play varsity follow the leader. Whatever path the leader chose – along fallen logs, across pilings, up and across trees – everyone had to follow. If everyone succeeded, then the leader was forced to find a more challenging route. Turns out there were a lot of tumbles and scrapes. We also tried to ride pine trees. The idea was to find a sturdy sapling that was thin enough for us to pull down but strong enough to snap back up carrying whoever had managed to straddle it along for the ride and hopefully launching him some distance, likely into it another tree.   To be honest, it usually didn’t work, but it was fun trying. Rick Allen, who was small of stature but large of courage (or stupidity), tended to get the best rides. I’ll go no further here, but please feel free to ask your Dad about other of Rick’s adventures.

Of course, one the things that made the outings special was beer.   It was what made follow the leader so unique and what allowed Rick to get back on a pine tree for another ride. You might be surprised to know that toting beer on a spiking expedition could be challenging. You see, this was the time before students and backpacks has anything to do with each other. The one guy that figured out how to manage the beer-toting problem best was your dad. He had a vintage army surplus green field jacket that was perfect for carrying a six pack of beer. Two cans in each of the big front flap pockets and one in each breast pocket. It was the most amazing coat ever.

The fact is that coat served your dad well on many occasions other than in the woods. It was his go-to outer wear, and I can still see him in it as one of the ultimate 60s paradoxes: a passionate anti-war pacifist wrapped up the most identifiable military garb imaginable.   It was great! What makes the coat story even better is that he bequeathed it to me when he left FSU and returned to the north. I assume he know it would not do him much good in a Michigan winter. In fact, it wasn’t that good for a Tallahassee winter, either, but I managed to buy a zip-in fleece liner for it at the local Goodwill store and it served me very well too for a number of years.   I loved that coat, and I love the guy who gave it to me.

More later,

Bill

April 29, 2021

I'm so sorry to learn of Dr. Ahnen's passing. We never met in person, but i had the occasion to get to know him a few years ago as it turns out we are related and a colleague had made me aware of him through their work with colorectal cancer. I reached out by e-mail and introduced myself, wondering if he would respond given the odd nature of the outreach. But respond he did and actually shared with me a family history that he had put together, which i was able to share with my father who grew up in Wisconsin. It truly was a random connection, but one that i am so thankful for. I was trying to reach back out to him to let him know that my father passed away earlier this year so that he could keep his family history updated, and was so sorry to learn of his passing. But even though i didn't know him personally, the stories and comments i've read certainly validate the impression i had of him as a kind, wonderful person who loved his family...and it's clear that they loved him too. My heartfelt sympathies to his family. May his memory offer reminders of his love and dedication for his family, and comfort you with wonderful stories of your time together.

National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable Bio

November 22, 2020

Steering Committee Member – Dennis Ahnen, MD

Dennis Ahnen, MD

University of Colorado Cancer Center

Dr. Ahnen completed his Medical School Training at Wayne State University in Detroit Michigan and completed a Medical Residency and Chief Residency at Hutzel Hospital in Detroit before going to the University of Colorado as a Fellow in Gastroenterology in 1977. After completing his Fellowship, he completed a Membrane Pathobiology Research Fellowship at Stanford University before returning to join the faculty of the University of Colorado School of Medicine in 1982 where he is currently a Professor of Medicine. In 2014, he retired from his long-standing (32 years) faculty position at The Department of Veterans Affairs Eastern Colorado Health Care System and joined the staff of Gastroenterology of the Rockies.Dr. Ahnen is an active clinician and investigator. He is the Co-Director of the University of Colorado Hereditary Cancer Clinic and founded the GI Clinic at Gastroenterology of the Rockies; he provides consultative service to GI cancer families in both settings. His laboratory has conducted both basic and clinical investigations related to CRC prevention. At the basic level Dr. Ahnen’s laboratory has examined the biologic and biochemical mechanisms of the chemopreventive effects of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Dr. Ahnen’s clinical laboratory group conducts chemoprevention and colorectal screening trials as well as behavioral intervention trials designed to promote colorectal screening in high-risk family members. The clinical laboratory group has conducted trials of screening colonoscopy, stool DNA testing, and participated in a series of adenoma prevention trials with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, folate supplementation and calcium and is currently conducting adenoma prevention trials testing selenium and Vitamin D/Calcium as chemo-preventive agents.In collaboration with Dr. Jan Lowery, the behavioral laboratory group conducts trials designed to improve colorectal cancer screening rates in high risk populations such as first degree relatives of patients with colorectal cancer or those have stronger family histories including those that meet the Amsterdam criteria for HNPCC. Drs. Ahnen and Lowery direct the Colorado site of the Colorectal Cancer Family Registry Cohort.Dr. Ahnen joined the National Colorectal Cancer Round Table in 2009, has co-chaired the Family History Task Force with Dr. Paul Schroy since 2012 and joined the NCCRT Steering Committee in November of 2014. Dr. Ahnen is currently working to implement CRC prevention interventions that have been shown to be effective in clinical trials into a community-based practice of Gastroenterology.

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