Joseph T. Lentine Jr.

Friends and family mourn the loss of Joseph “Joe” Lentine Jr., who died at the age of 58.

Joe was known for his warmth, generosity, and joy in bringing people together. A gifted cook and natural host, his home on Lake St. Clair was a gathering place for friends, neighbors, family, and colleagues. His annual fireworks party and year-round celebrations were legendary, filled with laughter, music, and connection. Joe loved the seasons, loved people, and loved celebrating life.

Joe’s generosity extended far beyond hospitality. He formed deep, lasting relationships with family, friends, colleagues, and community members alike, treating everyone with dignity and care. His legendary Christmas card list reflected the wide circle of lives he touched.

A lifelong lover of music, Joe sang in choirs and musicals throughout his life and was often called upon to sing or speak at weddings, funerals, and professional gatherings. His presence—on stage or in a room—was confident, warm, and engaging.

Curious and driven from a young age, Joe earned his Eagle Scout rank, graduated with highest honors from Eisenhower High School, and went on to study engineering at the General Motors Institute (now Kettering University).

Joe spent many years at General Motors, earned his MBA from Harvard University, worked internationally in Germany, and later joined the family business, DENCAP Dental Plans. Joe served as President of DENCAP, Chair of the Michigan Association of Health Plan’s annual summer conference, was an active member of the National Association of Dental Plans, and was deeply respected for his integrity, vision, and leadership. He was named a Crain’s Detroit Business Notable Leader in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in 2023.

Joe was also a committed philanthropist and community leader, serving on nonprofit boards and mentoring many individuals. In January, Joe traveled to Cambodia on a mission trip supporting the Kaleidoscope Child Foundation. While there he fell ill and passed away. Joe died surrounded by love, with his brother at his side and his family connected across the world.

Joe is survived by his parents, Joseph Sr. and Leonette (Lampar) Lentine; his partner, Jasmin Alverson; his siblings Dawn (Richard) Dorsch, Pamela (Michael) Otten, Jai Ram/Dan Lentine (David Ault), and Angela Lentine; many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, mentees, and his cherished dogs, Diego and Rembrandt “Remi.”

Joe lived fully, loved deeply, and gave generously. He will be missed beyond measure. Joe's ashes will be buried in Resurrection Cemetery, Clinton Township.

In lieu of flowers please donate to The Capuchins in Joe’s name.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Keiran Catholic Church in Shelby Township, Friday March 20 at Noon. The church opens at 11:15 AM. Livestream is available. After Mass, all are invited to a luncheon at the Italian Cultural Center.

The following day, Saturday, March 21, please join us for Joe’s Celebration of Life at Brooklyn Detroit, 12 - 5 PM.

(Please contact Joe's family if you would like more information about coordination of events and staying with extended family and friends at the local hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Detroit/Utica 44700 Hayes Rd., Clinton Twp. 586-226-4100 - code 908.)