Dennis Van Lake

Dennis Lee Van Lake, 66, of Kewanna passed away at 10:15 p.m., Monday, August 8, 2022 with his family by his side at home.

Born on January 11, 1956 in South Bend, he was the son of the late Daniel J. and Patricia A. (Weisel) Van Lake.

On April 17, 1984 in a romantic candlelit private ceremony at First Christian Church, he married Susan Hoffman.

Dennis worked for Nickles Bakery as a route salesman for over 36 years, coming to Rochester when it was still Tip Top Bakery. Most people referred to him as Dennis the “Breadman”.  Upon the closing of Nickles Bakery, he went on to work at Dague’s Dairy Farm for 2 years.

Dennis had a very strong work ethic. He was dedicated and worked 10 hour days, leaving the house by 12:30 in the morning, no matter what the weather. He received several awards for safe driving and perfect attendance. He was a proud Teamster and was a member of the Local Union 364 out of South Bend.

Dennis was an avid hunter and fisherman. He also enjoyed Pabst Blue Ribbon, Euchre, horseshoes, mushroom hunting, arrowhead hunting and bowling. He also had a knack for sketching and woodworking. Mostly he loved spending time with his family and friends. He had a fierce love for his family.

Survivors include his wife, Susan Van Lake and granddaughter, Ashlynn Van Lake, both of Kewanna, son, Daniel Van Lake and his wife, Ashley of Kewanna and their children, Brinlee Van Lake and Lillix Cook, daughter, Laura Van Lake of Warsaw and children, Kendalynn Klumpp and Clayton Klumpp, brother, Mark A. Van Lake and his wife, Caroline of Mississippi and their two daughters, step-mother, Fran Van Lake of Florida, sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Patti and Vern Hibner, two nephews, one great-nephew and two great-nieces, all of Florida, sister-in-law, Janet Hoffman of Zionsville, father-in-law, Bill Hoffman of Rochester, special aunt, Pat Clary of Rochester, best friend of over 40 years, Roscoe Malott of Rochester and a special mention to Brilee Wilson and Courtney Nolen. Dennis had several other long time friends he considered family.  He is also survived by his spoiled and beloved Chihuahua, Paco.

A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Saturday, August 20, 2022 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Metzger Chapel, 123 E. Main St., Kewanna.

Memorial contributions may be made to Kindred Hospice and/or Fulton County Animal Center.

Dennis’ online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com