Dennis Rinderer graduated from Highland High School in 1957.

Starting his working career right out of high school, Dennis worked for several businesses in Highland, getting to know the people of Highland and the vicinity. In 1971 Dennis joined the Highland Fire Department as a fireman, working his way up to Captain, then Assistant Chief, and finally to Fire Chief. Dennis was in charge of 42 firemen and 18 EMT’s. He began his 20 year career with The First National Bank of Highland in 1972. Throughout his working years he joined a number of civic organizations. He was a member of the Highland Jaycees in 1964 and served on the Board of Directors, and was chairman of numerous committees and projects. He was elected Vice President and then President for 1971-72. Dennis was also involved with the 4-H becoming President and Youth Leader. Dennis was elected the first Chairman of the Farmers/Businessmen Program and hosted the annual banquet for a number of years. Dennis joined the Highland Optimist Club in 1980 and has served as a board member, Vice President, President and Treasurer. He has volunteered on many different committees for various Optimist fundraising programs. He initiated the frozen Pizza Project to fund the scholarship program for youth in the Highland School district. Dennis is a life-long member of the Evangelical United Church of Christ, becoming President of the church in 1992 holding a two-year term, and again in 2002 for a three-year term. Dennis served on many other church Boards over the years. Dennis is currently serving on the Board of the Highland Area Community Foundation and is treasurer of the Highland City Cemetery Board. To list a few more organizations Dennis is involved in: Member of the Madison County Firemen’s Association serving as Chairman of the finance committee, Madison County Fair Board, Helvetia Sharpshooters Association, Highland Moose Club and is a volunteer for the Highland Area Christian Service Ministry (HACSM-Food Pantry) and for Meals on Wheels. In 2012 Dennis served on Highland’s 175th Anniversary Steering Committee. He also served on St. Joseph’s Hospital “New Hospital Capital Campaign Committee, calling on individuals and companies for donations. Dennis was instrumental in acquiring the land for the Northeast Peripheral Route for the City of Highland. The City of Highland will dedicate a park honoring Dennis H. Rinderer for purchasing the ground for the Northeast Peripheral Route.

In 2011 Dennis received the Bob Hardy Citizen of the Year Award given by the Highland Chamber of Commerce. The Highland Rotary Club presented Dennis with the Paul Harris Award for 2013. Dennis is a well-known Highland resident who has the interests of Highland and its people close to his heart. He is unselfish with his time and talents, which are appreciated by nearly every organization in Highland.