Dennis "Denny" Dietrich

Dennis "Denny" Dietrich obituary, Bay City, MI

Dennis "Denny" Dietrich

Dennis Dietrich Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Penzien-Steele Funeral Home - In Vassar on Nov. 23, 2025.

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Dietrich, Dennis L.
Saginaw, Michigan
Formerly of Vassar
Dennis "Denny" Dietrich, age 79, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025. He was born on November 15, 1946 to George and Frieda (Ryle) Dietrich in Saginaw, Michigan.
Denny was drafted into the United States Army in 1968 and proudly served as a Vietnam Veteran, a role he honored throughout his life. Following his military service, he worked at General Motors for many years until his retirement. In 1992, Denny married Phyllis Boltz, and together they enjoyed camping, car shows, and going to the casino. Denny also loved attending his grandchildren's sporting and school events. In his younger years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman and always enjoyed watching his favorite sports teams: the Lions, Tigers, and Spartans.
After retiring, Denny devoted his time to volunteering at Covenant, where he served for many years. He was also a dedicated member of the American Legion Bloomfield 229, serving on the Honor Guard and participating in numerous Memorial Day events-an expression of his lifelong patriotism and respect for fellow veterans. Denny especially enjoyed participating in Legion activities with his brother and fellow veteran, Gary.
Denny is survived by his daughters, Kerensa (Craig) Hecht and Miranda (Neil) Bierman; his son-in-law, Perry McCrackin; and his grandchildren, Kaitlynn (Brann) Schmitt, Ellen (Erik) Piper, Michael McCrackin, Elizabeth McCrackin, Sarah McCrackin, Kara Hecht, Kylie Hecht, Brennan Hecht, Bree Bierman, Mallory Bierman, and Brynlee Bierman. He also leaves behind his great-grandsons, Warren Schmitt, Foster Schmitt, and Declan Piper. Denny is additionally survived by his sister, Carol Gedraitis; his brother, Gary (Lois) Dietrich; and many nieces and nephews.
His daughters wish to recognize the amazing and loving staff at Autumn Ridge Gardens, along with the absolute best hospice nurse, Rachel. They all provided exceptional care, formed special bonds, and always made sure Denny had his favorite treats.
Denny was preceded in death by his children, Ken Dietrich, Michelle McCrackin, and Dennis Dietrich; wife, Phyllis Dietrich; sister, Marilyn VanSickle; brothers-in-law, Herb VanSickle and Sonny Gedraitis; and parents, George and Frieda Dietrich.
A military service honoring Denny's life will be held at Great Lakes National Cemetery at a later date. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Autumn Ridge Gardens AFC, Americans Hospice, Huntington's Disease Society of America or the family.

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