The Dennis J. Hart Memorial Foundation
The Dennis J. Hart Memorial Foundation, founded in 2023, is both a tribute to the life of Dennis Hart as well as a living goal to improve a few areas of the world with the spirit and tenacity of its eponym. Much like Dennis was passionate about so many things in his life, the Foundation will have multiple passions: supporting law enforcement and first responders, especially those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and supporting nature preservation, wildlife, hiking trails, and local parks.
With the Foundation, we wanted to focus on supporting law enforcement and nature to try to encapsulate 1) how Dennis worked and 2) how Dennis lived. As both played significant roles in Dennis’s life, we know supporting these causes with the overarching goal of helping others, would put a smile on Dennis’s face. The Foundation’s goal is to give out grants a few times each year to recipients, whether individuals or organizations, who have demonstrated an ability to put others over themselves and a fierce determination to succeed.
While we know that nothing can fill the void of Dennis Hart in our lives, we hope through a thoughtful and compassionate approach to giving, we will see a lasting improvement in these select fields. And through our mission to improve, be better, and help others, we hope to feel more connected to our community, to the natural world, to those in need, and to the man we miss and admire so dearly.
Dennis was born in Castro Valley, CA in 1957 and was the fourth child of seven kids to Thomas and Mary Hart. He graduated from Amador Valley High School in 1975 and after earning a B.A. in Criminal Justice from San Jose State University, Dennis was hired as a Police Officer for the city of Alameda in July 1979. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2002 and held many roles throughout his 30 years of service for the Alameda Police Department including Patrol Officer, Traffic Officer, Investigator, Patrol Sergeant, and Hostage Negotiator. Dennis retired in 2007, but his drive and enjoyment of police work led him to co-founding an investigative services company where he worked with cities across the Bay Area to conduct pre-hire background investigations for public safety employment candidates.
Shortly after becoming a Police Officer, Dennis married his high school love, Leslee Mohatt and the two celebrated their 40 th wedding anniversary in 2021. They have four children, Matthew (Erin) Hart, Jessica (Patrick) Dehl, Sarah (Adam) Zuur, and Zachary Hart along with seven grandchildren. The biggest joy of his life was being a loving husband, father, and grandfather (“Papa”). Dennis was so incredibly proud of his wife and family, and that happiness was felt every time he talked about them— whether it was about a recent accomplishment or even just a general life update— Dennis would be beaming regardless of the story.
Dennis was known for his humor, wit, selflessness, and sensitive heart. He had a deeply caring nature and enjoyed giving help to others rather than receiving it. Dennis had a passion for the outdoors, whether it was hiking, biking, backpacking, skiing, or golfing, he always had a desire to stay active. His favorite place to spend time was in Twain Harte, CA at his cabin alongside family and friends. Twain Harte held a very special place in Dennis’s heart and was truly his second home. He was an active member in the community and served as president of the Twain Harte Lake Board Association during his retirement.
Dennis is most certainly enjoying a Coors Light and patiently waiting in Heaven to receive the next postcard from your latest adventure.
Fund Administrators
- Zachary Hart
Donations
CharitySmith accepts donations in two ways:
The Dennis J. Hart Memorial Foundation
CharitySmith Nonprofit Foundation
13100 Filly Lane
Truckee, CA 96161
Online:
Use credit card by clicking the link below.
The above Memorial Fund is established as a division of Charitysmith Nonprofit Foundation (EIN 87-0636433). All donations are tax deductible in accordance with federal tax law. Receipts for tax purposes are sent via US Mail within two weeks of donation. Please consider asking if your employer participates in a gift-matching program. If so, your donation may be matched by your employer.
For questions regarding your donation or this memorial fund please contact CharitySmith.
