Dennis Earl Fugate

Dennis Earl Fugate, age 73 of Janesville, died peacefully at home on February 14, 2024. Dennis was born October 3, 1950 in Milwaukee, WI to Earl and Faye (Brenneman) Fugate. The family moved to Janesville where he lived the remainder of his life. Dennis caddied as a kid and was a natural athlete. First attending St. William Catholic School, then St. Thomas Academy, he graduated from George S. Parker High School in 1969.

While attending school, Dennis worked several jobs, including his father’s business, Midwest Aviation. He married his “queen” down the street and attended the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where he studied finance and attained his insurance licensure. During this time, he served in the Wisconsin Air National Guard/Air Force Reserve and was discharged with the rank of Sergeant. Over the years, Dennis earned many loyal friendships, and enjoyed hunting, and fishing.

Dennis was self-employed most of his life, initially as a salesman/distributor of specialty items under the moniker “Improvement Products.” Among other ventures, he raised pigs, drove a fuel truck, sold and installed fencing, and operated an electric motor repair shop. Throughout all his endeavors, he enjoyed tending bar at Krause’s Town & Country for his father-in-law and driving buses for his brother-in-law, David Van Galder.

In 1974, Dennis started Agsun Corporation. Agsun will celebrate 50 years of business this year, driven by his commitment to helping others day or night, even sometimes “forgetting” to send a bill! Dennis prided himself in making a small difference in the world, which included his early adoption of solar technology. He wanted most to be remembered as a Master Electrician.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 52 years, Janet (Schwartzlow) Fugate; sons Allen (Jamie) and Scott (Hany); grandchildren Alex, Carter, Aris, and Jax; and a great-granddaughter Leilani, all of Janesville. He is also survived by his siblings Tom Fugate, Faye “Sue” Fugate, Sandy (Michael) Northey, Rich (Darcy) Fugate, John (Vicki) Fugate; sister and brother in-law Jane and Blaine Vance; many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his father and mother; siblings Stephen, Doug, and Kathryn; infant siblings Mary Beth and Martha; as well as his in-laws Bud and Jean Schwartzlow; and sister and brother-in-law Lana and David Van Galder.

Visitation will be from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM Sunday, February 25, 2024 with services to follow at 2 p.m. at HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, 1010 N. Wright Road, Janesville. Burial will be at a later date in the Milton Lawns Memorial Park. Online condolences are welcome at www.henkeclarson.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored to accept donations toward a scholarship to support high school students entering the trades or to PBS Wisconsin.