TOPSFIELD - Mr. Dennis L. Heslet, 80 of Topsfield, beloved husband of Phyllis (Rhyno) Heslet, passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at Lahey Medical Center, Burlington following a lengthy illness, surrounded by his family.

Born in Sarasota, FL he was the son of the late Raymond and Myrtle (Dudley) Heslet. He was raised and educated in Sarasota and was a graduate of Riverview High School, where he played trumpet in the school band. Dennis continued his education at Northeastern University and received his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering.

An honorably discharged veteran, Dennis proudly served his country as a member of the United States Coast Guard, stationed at bases in Miami and Boston on the Cutter White Heath 545, during the height of the War on Organized Crime. His service included providing maritime security amid federal trials tied to the Whitey Bulger investigations.

Dennis embarked on a long and successful career first as a Fire Inspector agent for Kemper Insurance Company for over thirty years and then lent his technical engineering and videography skills to Bev Cam in Arlington as head of the Media Department where his expertise, passion for technology and commitment to excellence was well regarded throughout his career. Some of his most loved career memories were from his time spent with Bev Cam colleagues. A loving husband, father, grandfather "Toppie," and friend, Dennis was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from being surrounded by those he loved. He thrived on participating in family activities and celebrating the milestones and accomplishments of his daughter and granddaughters, whom he supported with unwavering love, wisdom, and pride. During his daughter's high school years, Dennis made a lasting impact at Masconomet Regional High School through his active volunteer work with the school's Music Parents Organization. He also cherished traveling across the country with his family in their motor home, especially on beloved vacations to Disney World. At home, he found peaceful enjoyment in building and collecting model trains, a hobby that reflected his appreciation for detail, craftsmanship, and creativity.

Dennis's devotion extended beyond family to faith and community. A longtime member of the Topsfield Congregational Church, he joyfully shared his love of music in the church choir and played an active role in church life. He had a remarkable ability to bring people together—whether through community events, his bowling league, target shooting, or painting landscapes, sailboats, and Coast Guard ships. His warmth, humor, and enthusiasm left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Dennis will be remembered for his warm smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering dedication to those he loved. His legacy of kindness, generosity and love for family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Surviving Dennis, in addition to his loving wife Phyllis with whom he shared 56 years of marriage, is his daughter, Kristen Galardi, and his granddaughters, Abigail Rae and Amelia Grace Galardi of Basking Ridge, NJ.

ARRANGEMENTS: A memorial service will be held at O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62), DANVERS, on Friday, October 3, 2025 at 11 AM. Burial at North Beverly Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be in Dennis's memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (MJFF). To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.

Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research
P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown MD 21741-5014
Web: http://www.michaeljfox.org/donate