Dennis Roy Vermette, a resident of Brighton, MI, died surrounded by his family on February 13, 2019. He was 92 years old.


Dennis was born to parents Roy and Mary (nee. Fitzpatrick) on November 7, 1926 in Wyandotte, MI. Growing up in that era meant knowing the value of hard work and the importance of family as he was a caregiver to his mother and handicapped brother for most of his childhood. Upon graduating High School, Dennis enlisted in the United Staes Army, during the heart of WWII. After proudly serving his country he was honorably discharged in 1946 as a well decorated veteran earning the Asiatic Pacific Campaign medal as well as the WWII Victory and Army of Occupation Medals. Dennis soon met the love of his life, Willow Jean, at a local dance class and the two were married on July 14, 1956 in Detroit, MI. They raised three children in their Detroit home and even after Willow’s passing in 1978 that is where Dennis lived until an unfortunate event in 2006 brought him to Brighton, MI.

Dennis was a smart man always coming up with innovative ideas and taking on projects such as re-canvassing the family camper, building a 17 foot kayak, or constructing a working toy hydroplane. Together as a family they enjoyed camping trips, car rides and traveling the world from Alaska to Italy. Dennis retired from the City Of Detroit at the age of 65 and his love for the outdoors only intensified as he looked forward to many hunting and fishing trips. Dennis Roy Vermette was a loving, caring compassionate man who cherished his family and that will be forever missed.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Willow Jean Vermette (d. 1978); son, Robert Vermette (d. 1960) and his brother, Edwin Vermette.

Dennis is survived by his son, Dennis (Tammy) Vermette; daughters, Lisa (Peter) Grebeck and Paula (Gary) Robinson; grandchildren, Gwendolyn, Josh (Stefani), Shane, Haley, Willow Grace and Ian; great-grandchildren, Devin, Micah and Ayden; brother, Raymond Vermette as well as many close nieces, nephews, close friends and extended family members.



Mass Of The Resurrection will take place at St. Patrick Church, Brighton, MI. on Monday, February 18, 2019, at 10:30AM with gathering to begin the hour prior at 9:30AM. Friends may gather at Lynch & Sons Funeral Home, 600 E. Main St., Brighton on Sunday, February 17, 2019 from 2-8 PM. Time of sharing and Military Honors to begin at 7:00PM.

Burial to follow lunch at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield, MI 2:30PM.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Arbor Hospice

For further information phone Lynch & Sons, Brighton at 810-229-2905.

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