Dennis Norman Pease, of Paw Paw, passed away on the evening of October 19, with his loving wife by his side. He died from Lewy Body Dementia at Rose Arbor Hospice. He was born July 4, 1941 at his parents’ home, the first born of Clair and Phyllis Pease. He graduated from Bloomingdale High School in 1960. Shortly after graduation he met the love of his life Janice Foune whom he married on October 13, 1962, they enjoyed 56 years of marriage. Their wedding was officiated by Denny’s beloved grandfather Reverend Charles Pease at Townline Church just down the road from where Janice was raised.
Dennis enjoyed his career as machinist at Fuller Transmission and later at Stryker Surgical both in Kalamazoo. In his younger years he enjoyed hunting all sorts of wild game but especially pheasant with his dad and other family members. Dennis worked hard at being a loving father. He consistently took the time to worship on Sunday. Dennis like many of us had times in his life where he was closer to the Lord than other times where he was more distant. He however did reaffirm his faith later in life. He was also fun loving, as a farm boy who moved to the lake he took great advantage of the water, teaching his children how to swim, water ski, and even a little sailing. Countless hours were spent fishing both summer and winter time. Many fish fry’s and summer celebrations were hosted at the lake. Dennis always enjoyed the often large 4th of July birthday celebrations many of which were shared with his niece Amy who was also born on the 4th of July. Dennis always was ready to attend the sporting events of his children and grandchildren. He especially enjoyed the trips to watch his daughter, Jewel, play softball in both high school and college. Dennis was a loving brother to his three younger sisters Gloria, Susan, and Sally. Whether he was helping with chores, helping with a remodeling project or just stopping by for a visit they were always loved.
After becoming an empty nester Dennis and his wife Janice moved from their lake house to a home outside of Paw Paw. Denny’s love for wood working and dogs grew more and more and was apparent to all who visited. He and Janice took advantage of this time to travel for fun and work. They traveled across much of the United States visiting such places as Boothe Bay Harbor, Pemiquid Point, and Acadia National Park. Denny had 5 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild and was a grandfather figure to many more. He loved to spoil all his grandchildren by taking them on trips to Disney, Yellowstone, and the U.P.
Surviving are his wife Janice Pease (Foune), children Steve (Shirley), Jewel, and Craig (Robin), 5 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, siblings Gloria Hassing (Pete), Sally Brooks (John). Denny was preceded in death by one sister, Susan Knoffke (Don).
The family will receive friends Tuesday, October 23, 2018 from 5-8 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Christian Church, 209 Cherry Street, Bloomingdale. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Rev. Tim Farley officiating. Burial will conclude at Evergreen Cemetery, Bloomingdale.
Posted On: Monday, October 22, 2018 3:04 PM
