Dianne “Dena” Wanstrath Dunlap of Butte, Montana, passed away early on Sunday, November 9th, 2025, from complications of a long-fought battle with poor leg circulation and wound care. After fulfilling a life-long dream of perfecting her pirate imitation, she felt enough at peace to join her late husband, Butch, in the afterlife where they will watch and marvel at how the family they started continues to grow.
Dena was born on July 23rd, 1946, in Bremerton, Washington. She grew up in Darby, Montana, and is assumed to have graduated from Elementary School at some point but demonstrated her knowledge through her quick wit. She married Butch Dunlap on May 17th, 1963, and built a wonderful life with three boys, who grew up to be just ok, though she was surely proud of each one of them and the fine men she raised them to be. After her husband’s passing, she spent most of her time in the company of her sons and was constantly surrounded by the love of her grandkids and great grandkids, whom she cared for very much. She would also be upset if we didn’t mention her meatball of a dog, Gizzy, who kept her company and treated her as though she was the only person in the world.
Dena worked as a stereotypically grumpy short-order cook for much of her career and held various jobs throughout her lifetime. She continually served as the glue that held the Dunlap family together by cooking meals and gathering everyone together. Her laugh was infectious and will be greatly missed hearing around the living room during the typical family roasting sessions.
Dena is survived by her three sons, Shannon, Corey and Derrick (Rene); her eight grandkids, Devan, Preston (Nikia), Logan (Bree), Cullen, Lacey, Sabrina (Robert), Justin (Bridget) and Tyler (Mason); and her seventeen great grandkids Gabe, Tanner, Spencer, Zippy, Madelyn, Ramona, Ivan, Parker, Owen, Hollie, Karina, Keaton, Hunter, Paisley, Jenna, Jovie, and Quinley. She is preceded in death by her Dad (Grant), Mom (Joan), Brother (Fat Gene) and late husband (Butch), who has been patiently waiting for her to rejoin him.
Dena and Butch will both be placed in their final resting place at the Town of Darby Cemetery in their long-time home of Darby, Montana. The family is optimistic that the graves will be dug in the correct plot this time.
Axelson Funeral & Cremation Services is privileged to care for Dena and her family.
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