Calvin Denker Obituary

Calvin Eugene Denker was born on December 11, 1940, and passed from this life on July 15, 2025.
Calvin was a devoted member of both Trinity Baptist Church in Pittsburg, Kansas, and First Baptist Church of Moore, Oklahoma. His faith was central to who he was-a man who read his Bible daily and lived with conviction, humor, and humility.
A true outdoorsman, Calvin found joy in nature. He was an avid fisherman and hunter who especially loved pheasant and quail hunting. He also took great pride in raising his Limousin cattle. When he wasn't tending to his land, you could find him cheering for his favorite teams-the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Oklahoma Sooners.
Calvin grew up in Custer City, Oklahoma, and graduated from Capitol Hill High School, where he served as President of the Future Farmers of America (FFA). At just 18 years old, he began working at Sutherland's Lumber Company, where he built a 44-year career before retiring in 2004.
Along the way, Calvin met the love of his life, Laura, and together they built a beautiful life. They traveled across the country, shared adventures on their ski boat, and made countless memories at Oklahoma lakes during family vacations. At home, Calvin was happiest behind the wheel of his tractor, often giving his grandchildren rides around the property or pulling the trailer for hayrides. Whether on the tractor or down on the floor playing with the kids, he treasured his role as Papa.
He was known for being ornery and full of jokes, but also deeply rooted in his values-a man whose word was his bond. Calvin loved to sing, often belting out tunes while driving-whether running errands, headed to his favorite Mexican spot, Chuy's, grabbing a pizza at Eagle One, or stopping for a plate of fried chicken at Chicken Mary's in Pittsburg.
Above all, family meant everything to Calvin. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, and he never missed an opportunity to show them love.
Calvin is survived by his beloved wife, Laura; daughters Anita Swift and husband Tony, Joyce Pendleton and husband Jerry, Sherrie Ettinger and husband Mark, and Sara Nichols and husband Nathan; nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and a host of extended family and dear friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents and ten brothers and sisters, now reunited together.
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