Dennis J. Ellison Sr.

Reese, MI

Denny passed away peacefully with his family by his side Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Covenant Harrison; age 68 years. Denny was born on August 29, 1957, in Bay City, MI to the late Matthew and Rosemary Ellison. He was united in marriage to Tammi on October 6, 1979, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Reese, MI; she survives him.

Denny was employed by Lumbermen's Inc. of Saginaw until his retirement in 2017. He previously worked for Reese Lumber Company. Denny was strong in his Catholic faith. He was a member of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church. He was also a member of Knights of Columbus Council #7233.

Denny enjoyed many of life's simple joys—especially spending time with his grandchildren, riding his Harley, bowling, shooting pool, and playing softball in his younger years. He loved cooking, especially grilling chicken, a skill for which he was well known. He also cherished countless good times with dear friends at Trackside in Reese.

Surviving besides his wife Tammi are his children Denny Ellison Jr. of Dallas, TX; Alan (Katlyn) Ellison of Reese, MI; Emily (Mike) Rush of Saginaw, MI; Adam (Danielle) Ellison of Reese, MI. Denny was the proud Papa of 14 grandchildren: Mackenzie and Brady Ellison, Layla, Grace, Sadie, and AJ Ellison, Corbin, Cameron, and Claire Rush, and Cadence, Hannah, Maddie, Avery, and Christian Ellison. He is also survived by his siblings: Ken (Sandra) Ellison of Kawkawlin; Tim (Lorri) Ellison of Vassar; Tom (Bonnie) Ellison of Caseville; Jerry (Sue Ann) Ellison of Frankenmuth; Gene (Susan) Ellison of Reese; Kathy Ryder of Bridgeport; sister-in-law Jackie Meyer of Florida; brothers-in-law Nelson (Sue) Gerhauser of Reese; Mike Gerhauser of Reese; his aunt, Leona Lambert; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.

In addition to his parents, Denny was preceded in death by his in-laws Janet and Patrick Ryan and Nelson Gerhauser, Sr and brother-in-law Robert Ryder.

Funeral service will take place on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 958 E. Tuscola St. Frankenmuth, MI. Fr. Patrick Jankowiak will officiate with cremation to follow. Dennis' family will receive visitors at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St. on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:00 p.m. and on Thursday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Blessed Trinity Catholic Church.