Obituary for Dennis William Spitzley

Dennis William Spitzley, 81, of Ionia, peacefully departed this world on January 20, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family. Dennis was born on June 19, 1942, in Portland, Michigan, to William and Katherine (Shepard) Spitzley. He embarked on his life's journey after graduating from Ss. Peter & Paul High School in 1960. On August 29, 1964, he married the love of his life, Delores Patrick, and together they shared nearly 60 years of companionship and love. A devoted member of Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, Dennis served as the chairman of numerous Tootsie Roll drives, exemplifying his commitment to his community and faith. He was known for his unwavering strength in his Catholic faith and lived his life as a quiet man with the biggest, most generous heart.

Dennis dedicated 35 years of his professional life to General Motors, where he served as a supervisor. He retired on July 1, 1999, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and dedication. In his free time, Dennis found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He enjoyed fishing expeditions to Canada with “the guys”, spending time at deer camp with his brother, and playing cards. One of his favorite places was the camping seasonal at School Section Lake in Remus, where lasting friendships were made over many decades. Dennis' greatest love was undeniably his wife and his family. His grandchildren fondly referred to him as "Papa" and sought his guidance for life advice, his renowned venison recipe, and memorable card games. Above all, they cherished the love he gave to each and every one of them.

Preceding Dennis in death are his parents, William and Katherine Spitzley; brother, Frank Spitzley; in-laws, Barb Patrick, Shelva Smith, Jewel Ritenburg, and Dorothy Risner. Left to cherish Dennis’ legacy are his wife, Delores Spitzley; daughters, Julie (Scott Ralston) Ackerson of Ionia and Sherri (Tony) Dixon of Portland; sons, Mark (Alisha Keasey) Spitzley of Ionia, Scott (Jamie) Cameron of Ionia, and Doug Cameron of Wayland; 16 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; brother, Larry (Pam) Spitzley of Ionia; sisters, Susan Hogan of Grand Rapids, Pat (Tom) Reinhardt of Ionia, Mary (Kevin) Walsh of Rockford, and Phyllis (Dan) Richardson of Grand Rapids; and in-laws, Don Patrick of Ionia, Lawrence (Shirley) Patrick of Clarksville, and JoAnne Ervin of Ionia.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 from 3-7 p.m. with the rosary being prayed at 6:30 p.m. at the Lehman Funeral Home, 220 Rich Street, Ionia. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. Tom Brown on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Ionia. A luncheon will follow at the Ss. Peter & Paul Apostles Hall. Private family committal will take place. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.