Ted Dennison, MAS, president of Houston, Texas, distributor TMJ Enterprises (PPAI 109099), passed away on January 14 after a long battle with cancer. He was 58.
Dennison was a longtime and beloved industry volunteer and leader. He joined the Houston Promotional Products Association (HPPA) in 1983 and was active at numerous levels, helping lead the regional association and volunteering for its trade shows, committees and events. He was a board member from 2002-2006, during which time he served as secretary/treasurer, vice president and two terms as president. Dennison also co-chaired the trade show committee for many years, producing the association’s Hot Stuff Expo. In 2015, he received HPPA’s Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2016, he was honored by PPAI and the Regional Association Council with the Volunteer of the Year award.
In addition to his work with HPPA, Dennison also was a member of the Regional Association Council, serving as chair of the Marketing & Communications Committee in 2008 and as treasurer of the RAC Board in 2009-2010. He again served on the board in 2011-2012.
Dennison was also active in his community leading HPPA relief efforts during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and working for many other interests including the Houston Livestock Rodeo, the Jacque DeMolay Scholarship fund, his local HOA, the Scottish Rite Learning Center and the Eagle Scout Advisory Committee. He was also a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason.
“Ted was one of the best people I have known in my life,” says Dave DeGreeff, a close friend and executive director of HPPA. “Loyal to his industry and friends, there was never a hesitation when there was a call for help. He was an inspiration to me and has made me a better person by his friendship.”
Dennison is survived by his wife Doreen, son Ross, two brothers, Jack and Robert, and his mother Mae. He is predeceased by his father, Zed.
A celebration of life will be held at 1 pm on Sunday, March 18, at Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, 2401 W. Bellfort Avenue, Houston, Texas. The family suggests the following charities for those who want to remember Dennison with a donation: The Houston Scottish Rite Learning Center and the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation.