WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Dennis “Denny” Wayne Wilson passed away peacefully with family at his side in Charleston, S.C., on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015, at the age of 67. Denny was born March 8, 1947, in Sturgis, a son of Wayne and Thelma (Hart) Wilson. He graduated from Sturgis High School with the class of 1965 and married Patricia (Gonser) on Nov. 26, 1965, in Howe, Ind.
He worked at numerous jobs, including those at Wolff Grain, Doe Distributing and farming part-time for many years, before achieving his true passion of becoming a full-time farmer. Denny and his dad, Wayne, cherished the many years farming alongside each other.
In addition to farming, he had many interests, including riding Harleys with friends (20 years at Daytona Bike Week), truck and tractor pulls, classic cars and trucks, collecting antique tractors and Winchester rifles. Perhaps his greatest interest was spending time with his very large circle of friends.
He was a member of St. Joe Valley Old Engine Association, Kalamazoo Valley Antique Engine and Machinery Club, Heritage Trail H.O.G. Chapter, St. Joseph County Conservation and Sportsman Club, the classic car group in Sturgis, and the liars table at Westside.
Denny is lovingly remembered by his wife and parents; daughter Dawn Wilson of Sturgis; daughter and son-in-law Kerri and Matthew Gunning of Summerville, S.C.; Scott Mingus of Sturgis, who was like a son; sister Pamela (Bob) Springer of Katy, Texas; sister Jane (Butch) Schmaltz of Three Rivers; sister Michelle (Tim) VanWormer of Bronson; several nieces and nephews; and his precious dog, Lynlee.
Denny was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Harold and Carol Jean (Yunker) Gonser.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Denny’s life will be held in Sturgis in the spring, when his ashes can be returned to the farmland that he loved. The date will be announced at a later time.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made in memory of Denny to: Centreville Ag Future Farmers of America, P.O. Box 158, Centreville, MI 49032 or American Red Cross of Greater Kalamazoo Area, 5640 Venture Court, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.
