Holly MatkinBernalillo, NM – Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Deputy Dennis Coulter died unexpectedly on March 26.
The 56-year-old deputy’s exact cause of death was not released.
The SCSO announced Deputy Coulter’s death later the same day.
“It is with great sadness to post that our brother, mentor, and friend Deputy Dennis Coulter has passed on,” the department said in a Facebook post. “Deputy Coulter was a great friend to everyone…He has the biggest heart and would not hesitate to help someone out without looking for reward or gratification.”
The sheriff’s office said Deputy Coulter was known for his perpetual smile.
“He would also love to joke around and when introduced to someone, would call himself Dennis the Menace and give a funny salute,” the SCSO said.
Deputy Coulter served with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office prior to joining the SCSO and had a reputation for always being “upstanding and professional” in his duties, the SCSO said.
“The department will definitely miss him as he was a great asset to the department and the community he served,” the sheriff’s office said. “Sheriff Jesse James Casaus and the Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office would like to give their condolences to Dennis Coulter’s family and friends. We will miss you and love you Deputy Dennis Coulter, we salute you.”
Deputy Coulter leaves behind his wife of nearly 24 years, Vanessa, as well as his parents and siblings, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many friends.
“Dennis was a man of his word,” the tribute read. “He was honorable, hardworking, dedicated, and had a deep love for those close to him. He was a loyal and steadfast friend and was held in great respect and esteem by his fellow officers.”
Deputy Coulter will be laid to rest on April 11.
It is with great sadness to post that our brother, mentor & friend Deputy Dennis Coulter has passed on. Sheriff Jesse James Casaus and the Sandoval County Sheriff's Office send condolences to his family & friends. We will miss you & love you Deputy Dennis Coulter. We salute you. pic.twitter.com/4G3XFKLSEo
— SCSOSheriff (@SandovalSheriff) March 27, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Dennis Coulter, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
Sandy Malone
