Dennis Allen Shelly
— July 17, 2022
Dennis Allen Shelly passed away quietly in his sleep July 17, 2022 of natural causes. Belfair, Wash., is where he did most of his growing up and finished high school at North Mason. Before moving to California, Dennis left his mark at North Mason. Four-year letterman (basketball, track, tennis), honor roll, Honor Society, student body president and some band thrown in for good measure. He also attended as many class reunions as he could until the COVID pandemic put a lid on most gatherings.
In California, the day after graduating from UCSB with a degree in physical education, he received a greeting letter from Uncle Sam, inviting him to the world of OD Green. After spending most of his uniformed time in Panama, he returned to Goleta where he resumed his activities as a foster parent – something he had started during his college years. Around 1973, he opened his bicycle business in Goleta which he operated for nearly 30 years, while continuing with his fostering/mentoring activities.
Around 2012, Dennis moved to Whidbey Island, Wash., to enjoy the greenery and retirement. Dennis is survived by his two brothers, Brian and Gary Shelly, and a sister, Diane Starker. R.I.P. Dennis.