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I'm going to die a rock n' roll guitarist" --that's what Dennis proudly proclaimed to Christie's parents the first night they met. Describing her first encounter with Dennis when her 'nice little girl' brought this tatted punk rocker home, along with Mike Ness, to meet the folks in Brentwood, Pat McMillan said all her apprehensions soon disappeared when she realized what a great guy this "little big man" was. Pat, Dennis's mother in law since 1991, said her husband, Jack, immediately began grilling Dennis on his occupation and how he would ever support a family. Dennis said simply, in his quiet but strong way, he was a rock n' roll guitarist. Jack asked what he planned to do after that phase ended. Dennis replied confidently, "I'm going to die a rock n' roll guitarist." And that's just what he did.
As Dennis's Gibson Les Paul rested beside the pulpit, Pat Eulogized Dennis yesterday in a heartfelt and poignant ceremony that had most in tears and dignified the memory of such a talented and beautiful person. She painted the picture of Dennis the proud father, loving husband, and great friend to all. She described his love of sports and the ocean and said that just as his feet made imprints on the beach behind the church that he loved so much, he has made an imprint on all our souls. Pat offered the full portrait of a man who many know only as the integral force behind Social Distortion; a man who did so much in such a short period of time, whose work has impacted the world.
Music played as the rock star-laden crowd poured into Our Lady Mount Carmel, beginning with "I Fought the Law" sung by the Clash, then a blues version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," followed by "Moonlight Mile" and "Sway" by the Stones. It was a perfect mix for celebrating Dennis's life. Band mate and best friend Mike Ness participated in the ceremony but chose not to speak and bassist John Maurer sat with his family in the front. Christie came in with son Duke by her side, while Ruby, their newborn daughter, rested with family. After the service, friends and family went to Christie and Dennis's new home, where all shared stories and memories and tried to comfort each other. Toward the end of the evening, Christie played the new songs Dennis was working on and promised that they would be released. The pride she has in him, as well as strong bond of love, shone through completely and made it even tougher to understand why he's been taken away from her.
As the priest said during the service, it's a "social distortion" to have a 38- year-old man with so much going for him and doing nothing more dangerous than moving from his old house, pass away. It's a social distortion that doesn't seem to make sense, but one we have to be confident has some kind of rationale. Perhaps heaven just needed a better rhythm section. We know he's jamming right now with Jimi, Johnny, Brian, and Jim--and what sounds they must be making up there! Close your eyes and you can probably hear them. We know Christie and Duke and Ruby can
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damn merklee you always find the good shit
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