Dennis Roy Gatien, 84 Spalding, passed away on Thursday August 14, 2025 at his home with loving family by his side. He was born on June 16, 1941 in Escanaba, son of the late Roy and Jean (Vincent) Gatien. On February 6, 1960 he married the former Donna Piche at St. Francis Xavier Church in Spalding.
Dennis worked as a machinist at Harnischfeger for almost 30 years until it closed in Escanaba. He then worked for Graham Trucking and the Menominee County Road Commission, where he was able to enjoy one of his many past times, plowing snow. He was often told he was a perfectionist at doing so, and worked there until his retirement.
Dennis also took great pride in his yard, which he loved spending time taking care of, he also he enjoyed going to camp, hunting, spending time in the outdoors in general, watching birds and was an avid Detroit Tigers fan.
He is survived by his loving wife, five children: Denise (Robert) Gatien Brux, Dane Gatien, Dell Gatien, Danette (Chuck) Hall and Dusty Gatien, two brothers: Darrel Gatien and Mark Gatien, two sisters: Barbara Stebbins and Cynthia (James) Visintainer, his pride and joy in life, grandchildren: Brad (Lexi) Hall, Mike Hall, Laura (spouse: Aaron Hagberg) Brux, Lisa Brux, Evalyn Gatien and Elliot Gatien, a very looked forward to great-grandchild on the way, as well as brothers and sisters-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents and one brother: Fred Gatien.
Friends may call from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. (CST) on Wednesday August 20, 2025 at St. John Neumann Church in Spalding. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at church with Fr. Benny Mathew officiating. He will be laid to rest following Mass in the Spalding Township Cemetery. A luncheon will be held in the church parish hall.
His family would like to express a very special thank you to all the caregivers at UP Health System Home Care and Hospice for their wonderful and loving care given to Dennis.
The Allo Coolman Funeral Home is assisting the Gatien family.
Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to his family.
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"Dear Aunt Donna and cousins--sending hugs and prayers for strength and comfort as you grieve. "
-Cheree Waring -
"Sorry for your loss "
-Judy Hansen -
"Donna and family, I was so sorry to hear that Dennis had passed away. Please accept my most sincere condolences and know that I will be praying for you all to have the strength and loving support from and to each other to go on and honor your love for Dennis. Love, Karen"
-Karen Sharkey Rackow -
"My dear big brother. I will miss so much. Our many chats. The joy in sharing our ancestry information, the latest bird sightings, remembering the good times living in Wilson and much more. You were there for me."
-Cynthia Visintainer -
"Dear Donna and loving family. My heart aches for you and with you, for indeed there is sorrow in parting. I am comforted by the love and care that was given to Dennis by his family. Praying for the Lord's comfort in this time of great need. Love, Barb Stebbins"
-Barbara Stebbins -
"My deepest condolences to Donna and your family. Dennis was a good man and will be missed."
-Kim & Jim Poupore -
"Danette, Brad, Lexi and family. Our deepest condolences to you all and family. Sending prayers and love your way. 🙏🙏 God Bless you all. Was really hoping to see the rabbit ears on Papa. lol. If you know you know. ☺️"
-Linda and Joe Newton -
"Donna and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. So sorry for your loss. "
-Gloria DeGrand
