Dennis L. Mulkey

Dennis L. Mulkey, age 76, passed away peacefully with his wife and son at his side on March 5, 2026, after a brief illness at the Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis. Dennis was born on September 29, 1949, in LaPorte, Indiana, to Frank and Hellen Mae Mulkey. He was raised in North Judson, Indiana, and graduated from North Judson High School with the Class of 1969.

Following graduation, Dennis enlisted in the United States Air Force (3rd Generation) and was stationed at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey. After completing basic training and additional coursework, he was transferred to Iraklion, Crete, where he served as an Air Cargo Specialist assigned to the C-130 Hercules, C-141, and C-47 transport aircraft. His commanding officers praised Dennis for his positive attitude, devotion to duty, strong confidence, and exceptional sense of organization and personal responsibility throughout his service. From the base in Crete, Dennis played an integral role in ensuring the steady flow of supplies, vehicles, ammunition, bandages, clothing, and medicine crucial to supporting operations during the Vietnam War.

Upon his honorable discharge from the military, Dennis carried the values of service, dedication, and loyalty throughout his life. He spent more than four decades as a master builder, earning a reputation for remarkable craftsmanship and versatility. Dennis owned and operated his own carpentry business, contributing to a wide range of projects-from work at Valparaiso University and high-rise apartments in downtown Chicago to elaborate custom homes, finely crafted cabinetry, and smaller home projects. Simply put, if it could be built, Dennis could build it.

Upon retirement, Dennis moved to Greenfield to be closer to his family and grandchildren. While living in Greenfield, he met his wife while hiking on the Pennsy Trail. Dennis embraced life outdoors and enjoyed many adventures with those he loved. He loved cold beer, riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle coast to coast, cycling hundreds of miles on bike trails, hiking, kayaking with his wife, and dancing to good rock-and-roll. He and his wife Diana attended Realife Church, New Palestine campus.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Diana (Applegate) Miller of Greenfield; his son, Greg (Crissa) Mulkey of Lawrence; his grandson, Nathan Mulkey; and his granddaughter, Kathryn "Kate" Mulkey. He is also survived by his sister, Dawn Cronin of California; his brother, David Mulkey of Valparaiso, Indiana; and his niece, Amy Jo Tolson of California. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Debbie Tolson.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude and thanks to the many doctors and nurses at the Roudebush VA Medical Center who provided Dennis with exceptional care during his hospital stay. A very special thank you to Dr. Chase Carroll and the entire Palliative Care team.

Dennis loved his wife and family deeply, and they loved him just as much. He will always be remembered and missed dearly.

It was Dennis's wish to be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Bozell Funeral Homes/Condo Chapel 130 South Main St. Wilkinson, Indiana 46186. Burial will be at a later date in McCray Cemetery with military rites. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made by mail to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675, or online at woundedwarriorproject.org. Online condolences may be made at www.bozellfuneralhomes.com.