DENNIS O. EVELAND

May 02, 1960- January 24, 2024

Dennis O. Eveland, 63, joined our Lord in His heavenly kingdom on Wednesday, January 24, 2024.

Dennis received Bachelor of Arts from Western Illinois University and a Master of Music Education from Vander Cook College of Music. He dedicated 34 years of his life to educate and inspire countless students as a Band Director in the school district of UISD and in the state of Illinois. His commitment to teaching and his innate ability to awaken a love for music in his students made him a cherished mentor and friend to many. His impact reached far beyond the classroom, as he also served as a member of The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corp, a prestigious organization that showcased his remarkable skills as a musician.

In the area of middle and high school, he published over 180 compositions in the genre of jazz, concert, orchestra, and marching band. As a composer, Dennis’s extraordinary talents were recognized and celebrated within the music industry. He published works with renowned publishers such as C.L. Barnhouse Publications, Claude T. Smith Publications, TUX Publications, Tempo Press Publication, TRN Music Publishers, Grand Mesa Publications, Print Music Source, Kendor Music, RBC, J.W. Pepper, Pender’s, and Stanton. His compositions were admired for their brilliance and were frequently performed in various musical events and competitions throughout the world.

Alongside his professional accomplishments, Dennis actively participated in community organizations. He was a dedicated member of the St. Patrick’s Men’s Club, where his warm-hearted nature and enthusiasm brought joy to those around him. Additionally, he served as a Grand Knight for the Knights of Columbus of St. Patrick Catholic Church, exemplifying his commitment to faith, service, and fraternity. Dennis also contributed significantly to the Rotary Club, showcasing his unwavering dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Beyond his professional and community achievements, Dennis’s greatest joy was his family. He shared 31 years of love, laughter, and companionship with his beloved wife, Felisa Garza Eveland, and cherished every moment spent with his family.

He was preceded in death by his mother Karen Eveland Anderson; and his parents Russel and Dorothy Eveland; his aunt Lela (Leo) Ferranini.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife, Felisa Garza Eveland; his children, William Octavio Eveland, and Tamara Felisa Eveland; his step-brother, Richard Howard; uncle, John (Pam) Anderson; aunt Crystal (John) Wallner; as well as numerous extended relatives, and friends.

The family will be receiving condolences on Wednesday evening, January 31, 2024 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd.; where a Vigil for the Deceased and Rosary will commence at 7 p.m.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Thursday morning, February 1st, 2024 departing at 9:45 a.m. from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to St. Patrick Catholic Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m.

Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at the family plot of the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be: Christopher Saldivar, Stephen Saldivar, Joe Gangi, Adalberto “A.J.” Vela, Sam Cantrell, Christian Saldivar, Ramiro Saldivar, and Andrew Woodworth.

Honorary Pallbearers will be: Jose Luis Vela, Eduardo Saldivar, Dan Woodworth, Mark Emanuel, and Ruben Gonzalez.

You may express your condolences, share your favorite memories, and sign the guestbook online at: www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care and direction of the funeral service professionals at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels & Cremation Services, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, Texas 78041; (956)722-8850.

“Today as I was finishing class up I received a text that my good friend and fellow Cavalier Dennis Eveland has passed away. I am deeply saddened by this sudden death. Dennis and I are both composers. He has been composing for a long time. I don’t remember the circumstances on how we met, but I do know he has always been the supportive composer friend I e always needed. Even he needed support we would always call each other and talk about the frustrations of rejection and other aspects of being a composer. He always listened to all my pieces good and bad. I know from experience to always do the same favor and I would buy pieces of his for my band because it worked for us. I’m going to miss our convos in person and on the phone. This one was a tough pill to swallow because weeks ago I told him I couldn’t wait to shoot the bull with him at TMEA. I’m praying for him and his family. For sure I will write a piece about him ❤️. God speed brother you will be forever missed by many” – Aaron Don McMichael, FMM.

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