Obituary of Dennis Kieth Lien

Dennis (Denny) Kieth Lien, 77, of Minneapolis, died at home under hospice care on April 15, 2023 from acute myeloid leukemia diagnosed in January.

Denny was born on September 26, 1945 to Henry and Myrtle Lien in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. After graduating from Lake Park High School, he earned a B.A. at Moorhead Minnesota State College, an M.A. in English at the University of Arizona, and an M.A. in Library Science at the University of Minnesota.

Denny worked as a reference librarian at Wilson Library, University of Minnesota from 1974 to 2013. His brilliant research skills, phenomenal memory, and calm demeanor were praised by colleagues and clients alike.

In 1984, Denny married Theresa (Terry) A. Garey, the love of his life. He spent the last few years taking tender care of her as her physical and mental health deteriorated, until she was placed in long-term memory care at Yorkshire of Edina when his own health began to fail.

Throughout his life, Denny was a fan and ardent collector of science fiction books, comics, and pulp magazines. He was active in science fiction fandom, especially the local Minnesota Science Fiction Society and convention Minicon. He co-authored the beloved fannish musical parody Midwest Side Story and was Fan Guest of Honor at Minicon 21. Just one week before he died, Denny was able to attend Minicon 56 for a few hours.

After retiring, Denny continued to contribute to the “stumpers” list for research librarians, and became even more active in various online communities such as Fictionmags, discussing science fiction, pulp magazines, comics, and more. His erudition, research skills, and punny sense of humor were prized by his fellow participants.

Denny was predeceased by his parents Henry and Myrtle, and sister Sharon. He is survived by his wife Terry A. Garey, sisters Joyce Moe and Deanne (Erlin) Hovelson, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial celebration of life is planned for Friday June 2, 5–8 pm, at the Como Park Streetcar Station. See Denny's online memorial board for further information as well as tributes, personal anecdotes, and photos: www.kudoboard.com/boards/xRExNJQo/dennylien