Dennis Tobenski

Dennis “Denny” R. Tobenski, of Kankakee, IL, passed away on August 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on September 10, 1953, in Kankakee, IL, to Floyd and Geraldine (Denault) Tobenski. On August 4, 1979, Denny married the love of his life, Janice (Smith) Tobenski, at St. James Church in Irwin, IL. Together they shared many years of love, devotion, and treasured memories. Denny enjoyed a successful career as a Certified Public Accountant before retiring in 2016. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and willingness to help others. Outside of work, Denny embraced life through his many passions. He had a lifelong love of music and was an accomplished guitarist, performing in his youth with the band The Rising Sons. He also enjoyed playing golf, fishing, photography, riding motorcycles, and woodworking, which he learned at a young age from his father, and used extensively, having built many beautiful pieces for his family. Above all, Denny cherished his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Janice Tobenski; his sons, Dennis M. Tobenski and his husband, Darien Shulman, of Astoria, NY, and Denton Tobenski of Nashville, TN. He had an extensive family, including his sister Vicki Hensley and her husband Rob, his sister Pam Kennedy and her late husband Bill, his brother Randy Tobenski and his wife Jill, his sister Connie Dionne and her husband Rex, and his sister Bonnie Draper. He also had many brothers- and sisters-in-law, including Mark and Ruth Smith, Marsha Smith, Monica and Max Brigham, Marty and Christi Smith, and Marshall Luke Smith. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many friends who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Geraldine Tobenski, and his sisters, Vicki Hensley, Bonnie Draper, and Connie Dionne. Denny will be remembered for his kindness, his quiet sense of humor, his musical talent, and the joy he found in spending time with those he loved. Whether he was playing guitar, casting a fishing line, or working with his hands in the shop, he approached everything with dedication and heart. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 8th, 2026 from 2:00 to 4:00pm at Jensen Funeral Home in Kankakee. He leaves behind a legacy of love, music, friendship, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. In lieu of flowers or gifts, a donation can be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society or to a cancer research organization of your choice.