Dennis J. Kushner

Dennis J. Kushner
May 8, 1948 – August 9, 2024
Father, Widow, Husband, Grandfather, G-Man & Vietnam Veteran
With heavy hearts and roaring engines, we announce the unexpected passing of an amazing soul, Dennis J. Kushner - a man who lived with grit, honor, love for the open road, majestic woods and calm waters, that could only be matched by his loyalty to his family, friends and brothers-in-arms. Dennis wasn't just a Father, Husband and Grandfather, he was a mentor, protector and an absolute legend. On August 9, 2024, the world lost a true warrior, but his legacy of strength, love, creativity, skill, knowledge & the ability to reconstruct anything, will live on forever.
Dennis enlisted in the Army in 1967 and was Honorably discharged in 1969. As a Vietnam War Veteran, Dennis carried the scars of battle, both seen and unseen. He fought his wars more than once, first in the jungles of Vietnam and then in the years that followed. It took time, but Dennis found the strength to stand tall as a proud Veteran, sharing his stories and making sure every fellow warrior he met felt seen and he made sure they got a "welcome home". His compassion didn't stop with words; he was a lifeline for other Veterans, especially those battling PTSD, showing them it was okay to ask for help. He was a proud member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154, a Legionnaire and a volunteer who never hesitated to extend a hand to his brothers-whether that meant lending an ear, fixing a bike, or just sharing a Vernors to their cold beer and with a knowing nod.
Dennis married Vivian Fenech on May 15, 1971 and they had two Daughters, Tania and Rachalle, whom they were so proud of. Dennis wasn't just any Father, he was the best any daughter could ask for. A man of relentless drive, he was full of life, love and a wicked sense of humor that often left him laughing before he could even finish his own jokes. His sarcasm & quick whit was even confirmed a few weeks ago proudly calling his Granddaughter, Whitney a 'smartass' after she quickly responded to a comment he made. He said that he didn't have to worry about her anymore because she talked like him.
Known to everyone as "Gadget," there wasn't a damn thing he couldn't fix. When Dennis fixed something, he didn't just repair it, he transformed it. Whether it was rewiring his daughter's tractor so it would start on the first turn, even after a long winter, or turning a simple basement lighting job into an elaborate setup with dimmers and three-way switches, Dennis went all in. And, if you heard a pop or zap, followed by his laughter and a quick, "Yup, that's the hot one," you knew he was at it again! That's when "Sparky" was born-because even a little jolt of electricity couldn't stop this man, not even when he was struck by lightning in 2019!
Dennis' skills didn't stop at fixing bikes and engines. He was a master mechanic who could make anything run, whether it was a diesel engine, a boat motor, a dirt bike, motorcycle or a go-kart, which is just one of the many skills he has passed on to his Grandson, Dillon (whom was the only person that Dennis would make sure to answer the phone when he called). His career started at Detroit Diesel, where he worked on engines before moving on to teach statistics-eventually even writing a book on the subject. His genius carried over into his work as a Metal Model Maker at General Motors, a job that filled him with pride.
The outdoors was Dennis' sanctuary, and the hotter it got, the more he thrived. He knew the science behind every seed he planted. He loved planting his fruit trees, excited to see them produce, only to go to harvest them too late after the deer appreciated his hard work. He even planted an "Anna Apple" tree for Anna to enjoy. He taught both Anna and Olivia how to garden and now they look forward to vegetable plants like G-Man had. Dennis also had a way with wildlife that bordered on the supernatural. Deer, fox, cranes, birds, turtles and even bears, were regular visitors, knowing they'd find food and kindness in his yard. Dennis' bear stories were legendary, like the time one walked across his freshly poured concrete patio, leaving tracks that made him smile.
Fishing wasn't just a pastime for Dennis, it was a craft. He tied his own flies, poured his own lead weights and created lures that were works of art. He didn't just catch fish, he caught them with skill, precision and a deep understanding of the game. Wherever there was a lake, stream, pond or even the ocean, he was dropping a line! The 'Master Fisherman' made sure Tania, Rachalle, Dillon, Whitney, Anna & Olivia were all taught how to fish.
His love for the stars was just as intense, a passion he shared with his Granddaughter, Whitney, passing on his knowledge and igniting her own curiosity about the universe. Dennis was so captivated by the mysteries of the cosmos that he became an official member of "Skinwalker Ranch," dreaming of joining the team and uncovering its secrets. Now, we hope his spirit is there, finally getting the answers he sought.
As a certified Olympic Archery Coach, Dennis shared his archery skills with pride, running lessons at the Livingston Conservation Sports Association alongside his Wife, Vivian. He took joy in training his daughters, Tania and Rachalle, striving for the Olympics and coaching them onto the United States teams.
Dennis met Lynn and they were married on March 22, 2003. Together, they enjoyed motorcycle riding, participating in charity rides for Veterans, volunteering their time with the Vet Center and Chapter events. In their retirement, they traveled around in their Fifth-Wheel and cruised their favorite place, Alaska. They eventually moved to Florida where they continued traveling the scenic roads, boating and fishing in the river and enjoying their wildlife-filled yard with each other.
Dennis was more than a man, he was a force of nature. His life was a wild ride full of laughter, stories and an unbreakable bond with his family and friends. His sudden passing has left a void that can never be filled, but his spirit-fierce, rebellious, and full of love-will never be forgotten.
The world lost a true legend-a Veteran, a fixer, a biker, a teacher and a friend. Dennis Kushner was a man who lived life at full throttle, loved fiercely and always had a joke ready, even if he couldn't finish it without cracking up. He was loved by many, respected by all and his legacy will ride on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Keep his memory alive – Thank a Veteran, do a good deed, help others, don't be afraid to learn new things and keep an open and positive mind, and when you hit the open road sail on the open waters, venture into the woods or pick up a wrench, remember Dennis with a smile, a laugh and warmness in your heart.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Jayne Lynn; his adored daughters, Tania (Mike) and Rachalle (Daniel) Litvin; and his cherished grandchildren, Dillon, Whitney, Anna, Olivia and Dylan.
Dennis is also lovingly remembered by his brother, Douglas Kushner; his sisters, Susan Tutty and Barbara (Jim) Blackwell; his step-sons, Bill (Liz) Gau and Raymond (Jennifer); and his step-grandchildren, Casey, Connor, Ciara, Brooke, and Emma.
He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Vivian; his father, Andrew Kushner; his mother, Regina Kushner; and his brothers, David Kushner and Patrick Kushner.
Dennis J. Kushner's family invites you to celebrate his life on Friday, August 16, 2024, from 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM at Chas. Verheyden, Inc. Funeral Home Clinton Twp, 43300 Garfield Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038. Please join us for a visitation to honor and remember Dennis.
**The Family is requesting in lieu of flowers, to please make a donation in Honor of Dennis to his cherished Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 154, 18025 15 Mile Road, Clinton Twp., MI 48035. An organization he was very proud of & felt strongly about!
An inurnment and Honorary Military Service will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery at a later date. Please check back for more details.
Please keep Dennis and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
"WELCOME HOME BROTHER"