Dennis Dale McNamara

Dennis Dale McNamara, a man of musical talent, completed his symphony of life on February 22, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on July 4, 1946, in Grosse Pointe, MI.
Dennis navigated through the waters of life with the grace of the melodies he so often played after he joined the United States Navy as a talented trombone and baritone player in 1967. His service was not just an act of patriotism but a pursuit of his musical passions, as he was assigned to the Steel Drum Band in Puerto Rico. Following his naval service, Dennis fine-tuned his craft at Wayne State University, where his deep love for music found a new voice through graduation in 1978, and later, continual instrumental studies throughout the 80s.
Dennis was guided by fate in 1989 to the organ bench of his church which urgently required an organist. This newfound endeavor led him to dedicated organ studies with esteemed musician, Dr. Wayne Wyrembelski.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dennis fostered a strong association with the Cherry Capital Chapter of the AGO, building friendships and creating memories with many other esteemed organists in the Northern Michigan region. His unwavering dedication saw him seated at the keyboards of Jesus the Good Shepherd in Atlanta, MI, Messiah Lutheran Church in Roscommon, MI, and finally, St. Francis Episcopal Church in Grayling, MI, where he remained faithful to his calling.
When the music paused, Dennis, alongside his beloved wife Dorothy, cultivated a different kind of harmony at Lewiston Shady Acres Campground and Cottages in Lewiston, MI. There, the couple nurtured not just the natural beauty of the surroundings but also the relationships with those who visited their serene retreat.
Dennis's life score was attuned with the descriptors of wisdom, creativity, and faith-a testament to his impact on countless lives. His memory will play on in the hearts of his cherished wife, Dorothy; his brother, Joel (Pat) McNamara; his brother-in-law, Don (Mary) Taube; his cousin, Paul (Cindy); and a melodious ensemble of loving nieces, nephews, and friends.
Funeral services in the spring will be announced as they are scheduled.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Grayling St. Francis Episcopal Church by mail at 6441 W M-72, Grayling, MI 49738.
Please share your stories and memories of Dennis in the "Share a Memory" section. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Nelsons Funeral Home, Gaylord, Michigan. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dennis, please visit our floral store.