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Denis Kuhlke Obituary
While most people want to go quietly with dignity and grace, Denis assumed he would leave this world kicking, screaming, crying, and headed in the other direction.
Denis leaves behind, his wife, Gretchen, the love of his life for 46 years. They were best friends, a passionate couple, and THE BEST parents. Denis also leaves behind, his five children: Denis ``The Favorite' (partner Scott Goodwin), Jane ``The Talented One' Windler (husband Michael), Molly ``The Tortured Middle Child' Becker (husband Warren), and Doug and Drew ``Inheritors of The Horrible Thumbs' (wives Chris and Diane). Denis was proud of each child and adored them especially for their wackiness, their flaws, and their ability to find humor in all things. All he ever wanted from them were ``socks, underwear, and all your love.'
Denis will also be missed by his lifelong friend and brother, David (wife Carol).
``Papa' loved his grandchildren more than words can say. They were his heart, they were his soul, they were his little loves: Amber, Paul, George, Sally, Sammy, Sydney, Nicholas, Sophia, Nolan, Alex, Isabella, and great-grandchildren, Amara and Armani.
Denis' friends are numerous and mostly weird. He touched so many lives in many ways. Denis was the good guy, the great friend, best girlfriend to Fran, and a true gentleman. The world has lost a masterpiece.
He loved watching birds in the backyard, rock and roll, Frank Zappa, and motorcycles.
Denis graduated from Stow High School, Kent State University, and worked until retirement at Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.
Please join us to celebrate his life, discuss his short comings, and to help us determine what we are going to do with Gretchen.
Funeral service 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 1, 2010 at the DONOVAN BAGNOLI FUNERAL HOME, 339 SOUTHWEST AVE., TALLMADGE. Friends will be received immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial donation to: American Red Cross - Haiti Relief, 501 W. Market, Akron, OH 44303.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Denis Kuhlke
Darrel Lowe
March 13, 2010
Doug,Chris and Family.. I hated to hear about the loss of your Dad. I had not had the pleasure of meeting your Mom and Dad, but from meeting You when you lived accross from Matt and Christy, I know He was a good man and they were both very proud of you as their son. May the Good Lord be with You all, at this time of your loss, and help you to know that He will be watching over you always. God Bless You Darrel and Bertha Lowe (Matt's Mom and Dad)
Teresa Phelan
March 12, 2010
Dearest Kulke family, I felt as if I knew your dad as a brother though I have not had the pleasure in person, due to the bright spirited, dedicated wonderful Molly. An awesome summary by loving family to an exceptional spirit! Love and heartfelt empathy in your loss of the greatest magnitude. Teresa & Patrick Phelan & Family
Norma Nickol Thoman
March 5, 2010
Denis, Denis, Denis --- What would we have done without you? And now we must carry on and make you proud. Your obituary described you perfectly and those of us who have known you most of our lives are lucky to have been a part of your life. The way you have kept in touch with so many of your classmates, you have been such an inspiration for the planning for our highschool reunions. We won't let you down this year on our 50th and I know you'll be there in spirit. On behalf of all your classmates I say "Rest in peace brother and thank you for the memories"!
S. Jane
March 3, 2010
Rest in Peace. I didn't know you but what a cool guy you must have been. So many people remember you so fondly.
Christine
March 3, 2010
I didn't know Denis BUT BOY, DO I WISH I DID! You sound like the PERFECT FAMILY! God Bless you. May your past smiles bring you comfort in the coming days and weeks. GOD BLESS!
Airik Angles
March 3, 2010
I worked as a service tech at Bridgestone on the Irrigation system. I had the pleasure of dealing with Denis on every service call, and even at his house in Portage Lakes. He would often take the time to stand and chit chat with me while I worked, and playfully hassle me about smoking on site. I will always remember Denis as a carefree and fun loving person that reminds me a lot of my own father.
My sympathies to the family, because I know what they have lost. And to Denis..... As per your request... I never smoked near the guardshack again. I will always treasure the friendship we had, however limited it may have been. Rest in peace my friend.
Nancy Illitch
March 3, 2010
Worked with Denis for decades at Firestone. He was such a fun and nice person. What a wonderful tribute you wrote. So refreshing and true! May your days ahead be filled with happy memories of your time with your husband, dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa.
Jan Clark-Perozzi
March 3, 2010
Drew and family, I am sorry for your loss. Drew, your father sounded like a great man who left very fond memories of himself to all who knew him. Drew, you were a fantastic boss and most importantly a great friend, and you know what they say? "The apple doesn't fall far from the tree" your father sounds like a delightful man. You and your family are in my prayers.
Jan Clark-Perozzi
March 2, 2010
What a wonderful way to celebrate him you all are truly blessed to have such a wonderful family
March 2, 2010
To the Kuhlke family....I did not know Denis I just happened to read his obituary and he sounds like he was a very caring person with a wonderful sense of humor.
Heidi Roberts
March 2, 2010
Dear Kuhlke Clan! There's not much more to add! Part of me wanted to cry as our plane was landing back in NH last night as 6:30, but then I thought just how funny and ironic Denis would find that moment and I just had to laugh instead! You have an amazingly loving and strong family and Denis would be so proud of how you are all finding your way through this time and laughing through your tears! We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Love you all! The Navy Connection- Heidi, Joe, Patrick and Evelina
Tabitha Hancock
March 2, 2010
Gretchen and family:
What can I say...it really stinks that Denis is gone. He always made me feel very welcomed when I was around. I know you will have those fantastic memories forever in your hearts and minds. Carry them with you through the days to come. I am sorry for your loss.
Jeff Kunsman
March 2, 2010
Kuhlke Family,
What a wonderful obituary! I'm really sorry to hear of Denis' passing. He was a wonderful person and his sense of humor surely lives on in his children. It's been too many years since I've seen him (and the rest of the family, for that matter). Hope that your many wonderful memories of him will comfort you during this difficult time. Your Former Neighbor,
March 2, 2010
Hello there!
I just happened upon this story and felt compelled to write. I do not know your family but most certainly wish that I did. Mr. Denis sounds like he was a very kind, caring, compassionate and humerous soul!!!! I hope that your memories will carry you on during these difficult days. Should you ever feel the need to add a 'new member' to your family, I would welcome the opportunity!!! I could be the one that wiggles her little toe....... = )
Take care of each other!
Kathy
Tammy Swope
March 2, 2010
To the Kuhlke family,
I have not had the pleasure of knowing your family, but my heart was lifted when I read the obit for Denis. The love in your family is inspiring! Thank you for sharing it with all of us. (Love the pic, too!)
PAULA ARRIAGA
March 1, 2010
GRETCHEN: I WAS VERY LUCKY TO HAVE KNOWN DENIS AND YOU. I WILL SURELY MISS HIS HUMOR.I AM PRAYING THAT YOU HAVE STRENGTH TO GET THROUGH THIS TIME. PAULA
Kathy Racco
March 1, 2010
Gretchen and Family,
What a great obit. If I didn't know better, I would have sworn Denis wrote it himself! Everyone who knew Denis at Firestone appreciated his sense of humor and smile. He will be missed. May God bless and comfort you.
Francine Petroskey
March 1, 2010
I never met Denis, I wish I had; I work with Doug and as they say, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. In sending my condolences to the entire family I want to say this has got to be the best obituary and most loving memorial I have ever seen.
Jessica Dreschel
March 1, 2010
My thoughts are with this loving, humorous and caring family during their time of grief.
Warmest regards,
Susan Kohler
March 1, 2010
The Kuhlke family, I am so saddened to read about Denis's passing. It has been many, many years since I first met him, his 'lovely' wife Gretchen. and his children. I met him through Jan Cook, I think she did some bookkeeping for you. I was the one with the commercial truck that I got stuck with, thanks to an "ex" boyfriend. Denis made arrangements with a company to buy that truck from me. I remember him trying to power wash the logo off, and it didn't seem to budge. Then Jan told me about Denis having surgery on his head. My mom and I went to see him and there he was sitting in bed with a half shaven head. I often wondered how he and his family were doing thru the years. You have my deepest sympathy. Good memories will help you get through.
Stephen Lautner
March 1, 2010
Love the unique writing. Someone has a great funnybone! To Denis (junior): While I'm glad you are w/ your family please know that Atlanta misses you.
Lori Dailey
March 1, 2010
Doug and Drew,
You and your families will be in my thoughts and prayers over the next several days. I wish I had known your dad, he sounds like a wonderful man, father and grandfather with a true love for life.
Wishing you comfort and peace,
Lori (Varley) Dailey
Judith Van Dress
March 1, 2010
I was a member of the class of '60 at Stow High School. I was not a close friend of Denis, but I do remember him as a quick witted fellow who was very entertaining. I'm sorry he won't be with us at our 50th reunion this fall. Judy Van Dress (nee Birdsall)
Jackie Larkins/Wilson
March 1, 2010
Dear Molly & Family,
It was a great opportunity it was to meet and work with your caring intelligent father Denis through my years at Bridgestone/Firestone. He had very good advice, and taught me allot. (not just with the job, but suggestions to life in general) I hadn't seen him in many years but then had the pleasure of seeing his smiling face one beautiful summer day. We have kept in contact since then with occasional e-mails and few phone calls, of his encouragement. He may of left this world of many loved ones but I guarantee he will never be forgotten. Time will help heal your pain ~ but his memory will live on within allot of hearts & memories.
Janis Seward
March 1, 2010
Like so many who have posted here, I never knew Denis Kuhlke OR any of his wacky family members...but what a WONDERFUL family this must be! To be able to view his life in such a beautiful way speaks volumes about you all. Thank you for sharing such warm emotions with all of us.
Janis Seward
Barb Gray
March 1, 2010
Gretchen & family -
What a great obituary for Denis!! Nothing could have been more fitting. He was a true friend to many of us at Firestone and we have missed him since his retirement. May God bless you all through this time.
Toni Fisher
March 1, 2010
Dear Gretchen & family,
I did have the pleasure of knowing Denis. We worked together at Firestone for years. We also served on many company activities, United Way, Corp Challenge, Christmas parties...and he was always a joy to be around. And yes, this is a great obit, which made me laugh and remember all the good times. Like boating with my daughter Lisa, my husband Gary and Denis on Portage lakes. Also, Gary teaching him to drive truck. But just the kindness he showed to all, and his quick wit and sense of humor. I know the family will celebrate his life, and his memory will be kept close to their hearts. Farewell Denis, you were a great friend.
Toni, Gary & Lisa Fisher
Dave Etienne
March 1, 2010
I did not know Denis, but I know his daughter Molly. And if he was as caring, loving and honest as she is, the world has truly lost a good one. Stay strong.
March 1, 2010
I wish I'd know Denis - he sounds like a wonderful man with a wonderful family. Remember the good times - they will help you through the bad.
Debbie Casey
March 1, 2010
I wish I'd know Denis - he sounds like a wonderful man with a wonderful family. Remember the good times - they will help you through the bad.
Amy Miller
March 1, 2010
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
T STEELE
March 1, 2010
Dear Kuhlke Family....I don't know you, nor do you know me, however after reading Denis's obit, I whish that I had met you and him. What a great picture you've painted of this man in such a short space. I wish you all comfort in the passing of Denis.
Kris Bair
February 28, 2010
The obituary was a Denis Kuhlke Family classic. Uncle Denis wouuld love it.
I am lucky to have cousins like all of you and an aunt like Aunt Gretchen. Uncle Denis was a wonderful person and a "cool" uncle. My prayers are with all of you.
Love
Kris Bair (Kuhlke)
Ed, Matthew and Rebecca
February 28, 2010
Gretchen, I can't begin to tell you how much Denis meant to me. He was the funny, quirky, amazing cousin that just made me happy to be around. Thank you for letting the world know what an amazing guy he was. WE love you all. Holly, Doug, Sean, Ryan, and MollyRose
Laura Molnar
February 28, 2010
Dear Kuhlke Family, All of you are in my thoughts and prayers. He was truly a great man!
Linda Rogers
February 28, 2010
Dear Gretchen and Family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you.
Denis will be dearly missed, but he was and always will be so proud of you.
Thanks for the beautiful tribute full of love and humor just like Denny.
I am sorry I can't be with you on Monday to share in the laughter and
love. However, put some time in Gretchen's schedule for me this summer.
We need time to share some of the family tales from many generations
that all include the love and laughter that has continued in your family.
God bless!
love, memories, and laughter,
Joseph Hathaway
February 28, 2010
We will miss the wit and wisdom of an unusual and wonderful man...Godspeed Denis!
Joe & Joanne Hathaway
February 28, 2010
Although it's been many years, upon reading of Denis' passing, we thought of the good times, and there were many. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Alan and Kathy MacFarland
Donovan Bagnoli Funeral Home, Inc.
February 28, 2010
Offering Our deepest sympathy during this difficult time.
james johnson
February 27, 2010
I I never knew Denis, but from the obit, I wish I did. I sent the obit to all my friends and heard from Rex houze in Florida and he knew him. He also advised me that Gretchen was a THS grad of 59. I graduated in 55 and had a sister, Lottie that was in the class of 59.
February 27, 2010
Dear Kuhlke Family,
Thinking of all of you at this difficult time. Your memories and his apparent enjoyment of life are true treasures. Love, Dawn Hamilton Ward and family
Laura
February 27, 2010
"Laughter through tears is one one my favorite emotions".
It sounds like it was a life well lived and will continue to be celebrated. I did not know your loved one, but I feel like my life would have been richer if I had.
Matt Palmer
February 27, 2010
A poem for you: A smirk on your face we did enjoy, though not the youngest at the table you were a boy, a story teller is what you yearned, but a legacy and respect is what you earned, a kid on your lap is what you did keep, even when you were falling asleep, thinning hair and and a jolly smile, the truth you could stretch for many a mile, the only regret that I must keep, you enjoyed your family for years but not your brand new jeep! Matt Palmer, sunshine club
John & Sue Rubino
February 27, 2010
Dearest Gretchen & Family--Over the 48 yrs. we have known you (Gretch since 3rd grade)our friendship has grown. We are so lucky to have had the pleasure of lots of fun times together. We can't believe Denis is gone, but I'm sure he's looking down on all of you with lots of love. He was a loving, fun guy who lived life the way he wanted. He raised a great family he could be very proud of. Our love, thoughts & prayers are with you all--wish we could be there! We will never forget him or his funny stories & jokes. We are so sorry for your loss. Love always from the Rubino's (John, Sue, & Family)
Chantelle Nye
February 27, 2010
What a fantastic tribute to your father, Kuhkle family! I have many wonderful memories of your family..and each and every one of them made me laugh:) We will continue to keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers...today and always:)
Jay and Chantelle Nye
M Hall
February 27, 2010
My deepest sympathies to Doug, Drew, Molly, and the entire Kuhlke family for their loss of Denis. I never met him, but I would have liked to shake his hand and say "good job". He must have been quite a man to produce such a wonderful family. This obituary is fabulous and just in keeping with what I'd expect from a family with such a great sense of humor. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Pat
February 27, 2010
I did not know any of the Kuhlke Family but I wish I had.
This family sounds wonderful. The obituary for Denis Kuhlke was so sweetly funny and loving. I send sincere sympathy to the family especially his wife. Being a widow is painful but eventually most of the pain subsides.
Wes Perry
February 27, 2010
Okay, Laura and I laughed at this BUT what's even better is the TOTAL strangers that commented on it. We know this is a very hard time and you have our deepest sympathies and our in our prayers. Your dad was a true individual and we know how much you loved him and will miss him.
Wes
Janet Woodruff
February 27, 2010
To the Kuhlke Family.
Embrace his memories and remember the laughter. Always find peace in the fact that he is still with you somewhere, somehow, even if it's in the memories.
Rick and Janet Woodruff
Linda Poppelreiter
February 27, 2010
I want to send my most sincere sympathy to Denis's family. He was such a great classmate and my husband and I enjoyed seeing him at some of our special class reunions. It certainly shows that you all had a great sense of humor and I know that he would have appreciated his "send off". We know he is in a better place. God bless you all. Linda (Reed) Poppelreiter, class of 1960.
Karen Cueni Tillett
February 27, 2010
I have a fond memory of hanging out with the Kuhlke kids outside catching fireflies on a warm summer night, listening to our parents uproarious laughter drifting across the winds. I know you will miss Denis and his humor and love greatly. My condolences to you all.
February 27, 2010
Aunt Gretchen and cousins,
Great job on the obituary.........you can always make people laugh. Uncle Denis was a great uncle and I will miss him!
Love and prayers
Kim
Eric, Alexis & Ryan, too
Doug & Linda Seese
February 27, 2010
We haven't seen Dennis in years but are saddened at your great loss. We will pray for the family as they go through this difficult time.
Julie Lamb
February 27, 2010
Only my crazy cousins who I DEARLY love could come up with an obituary that made me laugh through the tears!!!!! Uncle Denis is laughing, too, I just know it. Love to you all!!!! Julie (Kuhlke) Lamb
Tom Noe
February 27, 2010
That was the single most moving obituary and tribute that I have ever read and I think it captured Denis's personality and spirit perfectly. I've had the pleasure and honor of knowing Denis for the last twenty years and while I am greatly saddened by his passing, I know that I will take all of the positive memories forward with me. To the Kuhlke family, I'd like to extend my sincerest condolences on the loss of such a fine man.
Amber Becker
February 27, 2010
RIP grandpa D!! you were the coolest and funniets ever..we are going to miss you very much..we know you will be watching down on all of us everyday!!
Pati Lewis
February 27, 2010
Who was this marvelous loving man? This obit was sent to me in CT from Ohio and I had to comment on the originality, the love and kindness shown for his most adoring life. Bless you all in your loss and enjoy the times of his life.
Theresa Dolciato (Casenhier)
February 27, 2010
Doug, Drew and the remainder of the Kuhlke family, I must say that the obitutary for your father is the most wonderful I have ever read! A real tribute to an obviously wonderful man. I can see where Doug and Drew got their humor. While this may be a very diffucult time for all of you, the memories of the great times you shared with your father shall see you through. Revel in those times. May God comfort all of you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Stow High Alumni Association
February 27, 2010
Kuhlke Family, Denis's friends and former classmates at Stow High School send our heartfelt condolences. He will be remembered fondly.
February 27, 2010
I also did not know your loved one but he had to be a wonderful man to have been surrounded by such a marvelous family. Your family portrays such love for one another thru such great senses of humor. You seem to have lots of good memories to hold onto. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jim Garlando
February 27, 2010
Our deepest sympathy to the Kulke family, Jim and Ann Garlando
Melissa, Mark,Amy Ritterbusch
February 27, 2010
Kuhlke Family, What a blessing to share a life with such humor and warmth. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Lisa
February 27, 2010
Please accept my condolences for your loss of Denis. I don't know you, but this was the best obituary, and I esp. liked the last line about what do we do with Gretchen. You guys have a great sense of humor, and I can only imagine how much fun life with Denis was. I lost my mom on Feb. 1, so I know your sadness, too. Wishing you comfort.
Michael Moritz
February 27, 2010
As the preacher said at my dad's unexpected departure, it's the hardest on the family, but the best for the individual. After reading the obit, I see the family is taking it in the usual stride. My condolences to the entire clan, especially the "favorite one". You ALL were the best "second" family I ever had. Peace and love.
Robin S
February 27, 2010
Are we suppose to LAUGH at obituaries? Wow, what an awesome tribute to an obviously well-rounded man. Clearly he and his family have experienced much love and laughter!! God Bless you all!
Lonnie & Marcia Drayer
February 27, 2010
Gretchen and family, our family is probably to be counted among your wierdest and friends. Denis was a great co-worker at Firestone Tire, a great neighbor in Ivy Park, and a great friend in every way. Marcia and I are happy that we visited with you during our last visit home to Ohio. Once again the importance of visiting friends at every opportunity is something for everyone to bear in mind.
All of us will miss Denis, and we look forward to a continuing friendship with the remainder of the Kuhlke family.
February 27, 2010
We are praying for you all. What a wonderful obituary, he would be laughing with you right now! Love - Meredith, Derrick & Keegan
Meredith Deidrick
February 27, 2010
We are praying for you all. What a wonderful obituary, he would be laughing with you right now! Love - Meredith, Derrick & Keegan
Janet Baker
February 27, 2010
Molly & family,
My thoughts & prayers are with you in your time of loss. I haven't seen him in years but I do remember he was always smiling and loved everyone! I know he will be greatly missed.
He will always stay in your hearts!
Lynette & Tim McMullen
February 27, 2010
What more can we say? The obit was perfect.It captured the essence of Denis. No greater words could ever be spoken about a man. He will be remembered always in our laughter. Much love to you Gretchen & your wonderful children. Lynette & Tim
Lynette McMullen
February 27, 2010
What more can we say? The obit was perfect.It captured the essence of Denis. No greater words could ever be spoken about a man. He will be remembered always in our laughter. Much love to you Gretchen & your wonderful children. Lynette & Tim
February 27, 2010
Dear Gretchen and Family -
We are so saddened to hear about the loss of Denis. We have only wonderful and very funny memories of him. We never laughed so hard when he shared the story about the "burning underwear".
Although he kept us in tears from laughing so hard, he was also one of the kindest and most thoughtful people we've ever known. A genuine person - one of a kind! He will be in our minds and hearts forever!
Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
Wayne, Lorrie, Kate and Hannah Hlavin
Kelly Woods
February 27, 2010
I'm so lucky I have the Kulke family in my life. I'm thinking about the Kuhlke's driving Jane and me to Chicago and moving us in. Laughing with Denis. I had a street sign that said Hollywood. He put it above my bedroom door. Hanging out on the back porch making jokes with him. He is on my mind, and so are all of you! What an amazing and wonderful family. Thank you for being my friends. I’m lucky and I love you all!
carol
February 27, 2010
I didn't know your husband or dad but when I read his obituary I wanted to write this. He must have been an awsome man with a great sense of humor. This was the best memorial I have read. What great memories, and it made me realize what impact I make on my family. I am sorry for your loss, enjoy your time together remembering your loved one. Thank you for letting me write this.
Tari N
February 27, 2010
Don't know any of you but as far as obituaries go, that was the greatest! He must have been one heck of a man. How lucky you were to have him in your lives.
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