Dennis McClenahan ’76, age 60, passed away suddenly on May 30, doing what he loved – playing tennis. Dennis will be remembered as a loving partner, father and friend, a successful businessman, a superb athlete, and a generous community volunteer. He lived a rich life, excelling in many domains. Most important, he will be remembered for his kind and generous sprit and his strong devotion to his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.
Dennis was a resident of Palo Alto and was raised in Santa Clara, Calif. He graduated from Bellarmine College Prep in 1972 and Santa Clara University with a B.S.C in Finance. He was a College All-American wide receiver at Santa Clara University and, upon graduation in 1976, he signed a professional football contract with the Oakland Raiders. Dennis’s 35-year insurance career began in 1979 with Jardine Insurance Brokers, followed by Nationwide Insurance from 1988-1993. He then went on to own and operate D.A. McClenahan Insurance Agency before joining Professional Insurance Associates, Inc. as a Vice President in 2003.
Dennis was an incredible athlete, excelling at all sports. His particular passion was tennis. Dennis played on numerous USTA league teams and in many tournaments throughout the state. He was greatly admired by his teammates and opponents alike. In 2012, he was ranked number 1 in Northern California and number 7 in the state in his age category. Dennis was known as a formidable competitor as well as a true gentleman on and off the court.
He was active in the community as well. Dennis was a former member of the Santa Clara Preparatory Alumni Council as well as a past member of Santa Clara University Board of Fellows. Dennis enjoyed participating in fundraising events for the Canary Foundation, Menlo Charity Horse Show, and tutoring children from the Sacred Heart Nativity School. Dennis leaves behind his son Tyler (daughter-in-law Helen), daughter Molly Featherstone (son-in-law John), daughter Murphy, and his grandchildren, Cade, Max, Archer, Oakes, and Enzo. He is survived by his partner Laura Lauman, his brother Bob McClenahan, and sister Judy Vollenweider.