Dennis James Perry

1934 - 2016

Dennis James Perry, age 81, of Gladwin, MI, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2016, at Mid-Michigan Health, Gladwin, MI. He was born in Saginaw, MI on June 4, 1934, the son of Glenn W. and Florence Elizabeth (St. Denis) Perry.
Dennis was a veteran of the United States Navy, proud to serve his country during the Korean Conflict. After that he came home and on May 6, 1957, he married the love of his life Sarah Catherine Brown (Sara-Belle). They celebrated 46 wonderful years together before she predeceased him in death in March 2004. Dennis was employed by General Motors in the skilled trades, but was more known for his work in the U.A.W. Local 668 as a Shop Committee Man until his retirement. During his time with G.M. he had acquired four journeymen cards.
After his retirement, Dennis and Sarah moved to Gladwin County, where he became even more active within the Democratic Party. Which led him to become the Hay Township Supervisor for many years. He also was active in singing and acting for the Saginaw Pit and Balcony Theater, Gladwin Theater Group, and Barbershop Quartet. His biggest glory was to sing Old Man River on a paddleboat going down the Mississippi River. He was a very talented and gifted singer. He sang all the time and loved to serenade people with his beautiful voice anywhere he was at, especially the grocery store. Dennis was a member of the Big Boys Club of Gladwin and the National Democratic Party.
His memory will be cherished by his children, Denise (David) Markle of Mancelona, MI, Bridgette Crowe of Morrow, LA, Brian (Crystal) Perry of Saginaw and Tricia (Timothy) Yent of Midland, MI. Also Emmily (Stephen) Perry of Houghton Lake, MI; Meaghen Perry of North Fort Meyers, FL who were raised by their grandparents. His children blessed him with 16 beautiful grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren with one on the way. He is also survived by his brother, Tim (Linda) Perry of Saginaw; sisters, Judy (Keith) Kushman of Beaverton, Prudy Wilson of Galveston, TX; Nina Whisman of Melbourne, FL, and Glenda (Jeff) Ellsworth of Midland, MI. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, grandson Devin Michael, brothers: Duane, Richard and Ron; sister Juana and special friend, Dale Stevenson.
Honoring his wishes cremation will take place and Memorial Services will be conducted on Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, 5 p.m. with a gathering for family and friends beginning at 4 p.m. at the Gladwin Eagles, 101 N. State Street, Gladwin, MI.
In lieu of flowers the family is asking that contributions be made to the American Cancer Society or the donor's charity of choice.
Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin, MI.