Dennis Vaughn Cummins

Dennis Vaughn Cummins, of Modesto, California, passed away on Monday, January 4th.

Dennis was born on December 27th, 1936 in Alamosa, Colorado to Harry Vaughn Cummins and Dorothy Lenore Hampson. After moving to Modesto, Dennis started as a freshman at Downey High School the very first year it opened. After graduating in 1955, he joined the United States Air Force and served from 1955 – 1959.

When he returned from service, he attended Modesto Junior College and later started a successful career in construction. With his brother Harry, he built their company – D. Cummins Corporation. Dennis was an industry leader in cold storage construction, specialty insulation, and acoustical design and installation. Dennis served as the President of the Valley Builders Exchange twice and was on the Board of Directors of the International Association of Cold Storage Contractors.

The oldest of 3 boys, Dennis was a born leader – in his family, business, and community.

He was a committed member of Boy Scouts of America, serving as President of the Greater Yosemite Council, and was involved in the construction of almost every building at BSA Camp John Mensinger. For his efforts, he was given the Silver Beaver Award – a prestigious honor given for exceptional service within a council. Dennis was also an active member of many community organizations, including the Gateway Rotary Club, Active 20-30 Club, Junior Chamber of Commerce, Modesto Trade Club, SOS Club and the Old Fisherman’s Club.

He became a private pilot in the early 1960s and kept his license current for the remainder of his life. He enjoyed restoring and flying World War II era aircraft and military jeeps and was one of the founding members of the Modesto Chapter of the Commemorative Air Force.

After all his accomplishments, he will be remembered most as the best husband, father and grandfather to his family.

He is survived by his wife, Robbie, his children – Michael Vaughn Cummins (Tamie) and Ronald Glen Cummins (Debbie), his brothers Harry Cummins (Margo) and Chester Cummins (Diane), 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Memorial Services are Private

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Greater Yosemite Council of Boy Scouts of America or Community Hospice.

Greater Yosemite Council

Boy Scouts of America

4031 Technology Drive

Modesto, CA 95356

Community Hospice

4368 Spyres Way

Modesto, CA 95356

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.