Dennis James Cox-Townsend

Dennis James Cox-Townsend was born February 1, 1954 in Duluth, MN to Gerald and Barbara (Korpi) Cox. He attended school in Duluth, graduating from Denfeld High School. He earned a bachelors degree in social sciences from UMD and a master of divinity degree from United Theological School in Dayton, OH. He married Linda Townsend on June 7, 1979. He was ordained in the United Methodist Church and served as a pastor in Wells; St. Clair Beauford; Plainview, Kellog Weaver; and Chatfield. He retired from the ministry in 2002, moving to Rochester where he worked as a bookseller at Barnes Noble for ten years before retiring in 2013. Dennis enjoyed reading and music. He was an artist with a focus on painting and calligraphy. He loved sewing and was known for his elaborate costumes. He was a trained massage therapist and also liked to travel, particularly on cruises. Dennis was an excellent cook and baker who delighted in sharing his treats with family and friends. With his tendency to overdo things, he sometimes made as many as 250 dozen Christmas cookies. Dennis lived for others and believed whole-heartedly in the principle of paying it forward. He freely reached out to help anyone in need. Dennis passed from this lifeon Sunday, September 25th. He was preceded in death by his parentsandby his wife and soul-mate Linda. He is survived byhis daughters Blair and Beth; his brothers Dean(Tammy), OddioandIvan;his sister Deborah(Tim)Seelinger; several nephews and nieces; his best friend Ross Virock; and a wide circle of other friends. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association, or local food shelves. A memorial celebrating his life will be heldSunday, October 9thwith visitationstarting at 1:00and serviceat 2:00 pmat Ranfranz Vine Funeral Home. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 www.ranfranzandvinefh.com