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Longtime Gladwin Transit Director and MPTA Board Member Dennis Vannest Passes

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Posted on February 20, 2024

Dennis Wade Vannest, born with a heart full of love and a voice eager to sing God's praises, embarked on his final journey to meet his Creator leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith and familial devotion. He was born on February 1, 1945 in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Wellington & Olive (Lucas) Vannest. Dennis's life was a testament to the adage that the measure of a man is found in the love he gives and the lives he touches.Dennis's life was a rich tapestry woven with the love of his family, his steadfast faith, and his commitment to his community. He shared a beautiful and enduring love with his wife Susan which began on October 15,1966, at the Gladwin United Methodist Church together they celebrated 57 years, they raised a family that was the pride and joy of his life. Their children, Andrew (Alison) Vannest, Daniel (Tracey) Vannest, and Anna (Andrew) Kobs, were the embodiment of his spirit and values. His grandchildren, Mikaeli (Khayman) VonReichbauer, Jamison Campbell, Parker Kobs, Ruby Vannest, Reid Vannest, and Lane Kobs, were the twinkling stars in his sky, each of them carrying a spark of his gentle wisdom and infectious laughter.Dennis was a cherished brother to Byron Vannest and Linda (Roy) Staley, and he held a special bond with his cousin, Mike (Karen) Steinkraus, who was like a brother to him. His life was also enriched by the presence of his loving sister-in-law’s, LaNeel, Karen, and Ginna Vannest. Dennis was greeted in heaven by his parents and his brothers, Wayne, Harold, and Mark Vannest, as well as his sister-in-law, Janet Vannest. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, and cousins.Dennis carried the lessons learned in his youth throughout his life. His professional journey led him to serve as the City County Transit Director of Gladwin, where his dedication to his work and his community was evident to all who had the privilege of working alongside him.Dennis was a man of devout faith, a lifetime member of the First United Methodist Church, where he served as a Lay Speaker, a youth leader, and a Sunday school teacher. His love for music found its expression in his joyous singing, a gift he shared with all who gathered to worship. Dennis's interests extended beyond the church doors as he loved golfing, playing games and driving tractors. Above all, Dennis's life was anchored in his love for his family and his grandchildren. They were the center of his universe, the recipients of his endless affection, and the witnesses to his faith-filled existence. Though his voice has been stilled, the echoes of his song will resonate in the lives of those he loved, in the church he served, and in the community, he helped to shape.Funeral Services will be held Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 11 am at the New Beginnings Methodist Church in Gladwin with Pastor Dave Stewart presiding with inurnment to follow. Friends may visit at the Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home-Gladwin Chapel on Friday, from 3 to 8 pm. On Saturday, Dennis will lie in state at the church from 10 am until time of service. In lieu of flowers those wishing an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the New Beginnings Methodist Church in Dennis’s honor.