Dennis Lee Van Lake

1956 - 2022

Dennis Lee Van Lake, 66, of Kewanna, passed away at 10:15 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, with his family by his side at home.

Born on Jan. 11, 1956, in South Bend, he was the son of the late Daniel J. and Patricia A. (Weisel) Van Lake.

On April 17, 1984 in a romantic candlelit private ceremony at First Christian Church, he married Susan Hoffman.

Dennis worked for Nickles Bakery as a route salesman for more than 36 years, coming to Rochester when it was still Tip Top Bakery. Most people referred to him as Dennis the "Breadman." Upon the closing of Nickles Bakery, he went on to work at Dague's dairy farm for two years.

Dennis had a very strong work ethic. He was dedicated and worked 10 hour days, leaving the house by 12:30 in the morning, no matter what the weather. He received several awards for safe driving and perfect attendance. He was a proud Teamster and was a member of the Local Union 364 out of South Bend.

Dennis was an avid hunter and fisherman. He also enjoyed Pabst Blue Ribbon, Euchre, horseshoes, mushroom hunting, arrowhead hunting and bowling. He also had a knack for sketching and woodworking. Mostly he loved spending time with his family and friends. He had a fierce love for his family.

Survivors include his wife, Susan Van Lake and granddaughter, Ashlynn Van Lake, both of Kewanna; son Daniel Van Lake and his wife, Ashley of Kewanna and their children, Brinlee Van Lake and Lillix Cook; daughter Laura Van Lake of Warsaw and children Kendalynn Klumpp and Clayton Klumpp; brother Mark A. Van Lake and his wife, Caroline of Mississippi and their two daughters; stepmother Fran Van Lake of Florida; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Patti and Vern Hibner; two nephews, one great-nephew and two great-nieces, all of Florida; sister-in-law Janet Hoffman of Zionsville, father-in-law Bill Hoffman of Rochester; special aunt Pat Clary of Rochester; best friend of over 40 years, Roscoe Malott of Rochester; and a special mention to Brilee Wilson and Courtney Nolen. Dennis had several other long time friends he considered family. He is also survived by his spoiled and beloved Chihuahua, Paco.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022, from 1-4 p.m. at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Metzger Chapel, 123 E. Main St., Kewanna.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kindred Hospice and/or Fulton County Animal Center.

Dennis' online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.