Dennis B Kaanta, 69, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away Thursday, October 18, 2018 at Grand Itasca Clinic & Hospital. He was born June 9, 1949 in Duluth, Minnesota to Carl and Mabel (Kesty) Kaanta. Dennis graduated from Esko High School and attended the University of Minnesota Duluth. He joined the U.S. Army in 1969 until 1977, receiving the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, 1 oversea bar, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/palm, Marksman Badge, and Expert Badge. Dennis served in the Vietnam War and was stationed in South Korea, Vietnam and Germany. He married Yong OK Kim on September 19, 1972 in Seoul, South Korea. Returning to the states, they were at Fort Gordon, GA until returning to Esko, MN in 1975. They moved to Grand Rapids, MN in 1982. He worked for Potlatch as an electrician. Dennis loved hunting and fishing. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Roland, Steven Kaanta; and a sister, Geri Merrier. Dennis is survived by his wife, Yong Ok "Okie" (Kim) Kaanta; children, Marsha (James) of Grand Rapids, MN, Matthew of Roseville, MN, Michael (Brittany) of Grand Forks, ND, Marcus of Grand Rapids, MN; brother-in-law, Ted Merrier; grandchildren, Jaidyn, Jordyn, and Kaaliyah; his furbabies, JoJo and Mitsy; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Memorial Service: Friday 11:00 a.m., October 26, 2018 with a gathering of friends one hour prior to the service all at Andrews-Libbey Funeral Home & Cremation Services with military honors accorded by the Grand Rapids Area Veterans Color Guard. Inurnment in Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery-Duluth. See online family guestbook at www.andrews-libbeyfh.com. Arrangements by Andrews-Libbey Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 520 N.E. 2nd Ave, Grand Rapids, MN 55744, 218-326-4000.