Dennis Allen Rethamel

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roland & Helen; stepfather, Wyman Burleson; sisters, April Mingus and Diane Rethamel; as well as his brother, Brian Burleson.

He leaves behind his wife of 47 years, Pamela; three children, Wendy, Bill (Ceila) and John; two grandchildren, Victoria and Hayden; brother, Rick; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind close friends of many years, Steve and Robin Young. Dennis maintained a close and loving relationship with his former in-laws, Dee and Helen Weaver.

After graduating from Bath High School in 1965, Dennis worked for GM in Lansing for 41 years, interrupted only from 1966 to 1970, during the time he proudly served his country in the United States Air Force , at FE Warren AFB in Cheyenne, WY. A gifted man, he was always a “jack of all trades” and able to fix nearly anything he came across. Rare was the occasion he would need outside help. In his later years, Dennis enjoyed flying drones (some of which returned home) and making salsa for his friends and family. Despite being retired, he returned to work past the age of 70 at Contractor’s Supply near Laingsburg where he continued to make friends and use his mechanical gifts to help others.

He loved hard rock and enjoyed motorcycle trips with his family and friends and always had a sharp wit. Dennis loved the people around him and always did his best to make them feel loved too.

A resident of Laingsburg since 1974, he was a member of the First Congregational Church as well as the Lions Club. He married Pamela on December 2, 1977 and soon they began to build their home together. The house he spent the remainder of his life in was truly a “family affair” and both sides of the family’s numerous members contributed their time, tools and talent to complete the job.

The family wishes to extend their thanks to Elara Caring Hospice Care for helping to make Dennis comfortable during his final days. They truly made a trying time bearable.

A memorial service will be held at the family home on Sunday, April 13, 2025 at 1pm.