DENNIS MICHAEL SCANLON (DENNY)

Dennis Michael Scanlon (Denny), 70, of Traverse City Michigan, passed away peacefully, and surrounded by loved ones on November 27th, 2022.

Denny was born in Detroit, Michigan on May 25th, 1952, to Richard Scanlon Sr and Joyce Scanlon. He graduated from Stevenson High School and Wayne State University. He served in the U.S. Army artillery maintenance, was a Federal Firefighter/EMT in Monterey, California, the owner and operator of Summer House Restaurant, Carmel Valley, California, a self employed builder and respected caregiver at Highland Park Hospital in Illinois before retiring up north in Traverse City, Michigan.

Denny was married in Carmel Valley, California and gave life to 2 beautiful sons, Kellen and Chris whom he loved deeply. He was a lover of life and music. A good, gentle man, who had a heart so full of love that it spilled over onto anyone who crossed his path. He was sweet and clever and funny, humble, crazy, friendly and lovable. He made every interaction more entertaining and interesting. And he deeply loved his family and friends. Denny had a special passion for horseshoes, playing guitar, cooking and ball games.. He was a nature lover who adored fishing and walks in the woods or on the beach.

His work at the hospital was where his light shined the brightest. He received many accolades from both his patients and colleagues for demonstrating his intuitive dedication and inspiring spirit of care. He spoke with friendly and caring words and was often commended there for his love and kindness and his gentleness with strangers.

Denny is survived by his dearest parents, Richard Scanlon Sr. (99) and Joyce Scanlon (101); children Kellen Scanlon (his wife, Katelyn Wood) and Chris Scanlon (his fiancé, Shannan Jackson) his grandsons Donovan James (3 yrs) and Drew Jones (11 months) and soon-to-be born baby granddaughter ; sisters Cheryl Richter and SuAnn Mills and his many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Denny is preceded in death by his beloved brother Richard Wayne Scanlon jr. (Dickie).

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be given to Grand Traverse County Veterans Affairs or Goodwill Inn of Traverse City.

Per his wishes, Denny’s body was donated to Wayne State University School of Medicine.