The Catholic Community Foundation of Mid-Michigan has received memorial donations in the name of Dennis Joseph Tanner to support the Hopeful Future Scholarship. Thank you to the donors.
Below you can read more about Dennis Joseph Tanner, as written by his family.
Dennis Joseph Tanner, 68, of Bay City, our courageous and loyal brother, uncle and friend was born into eternal life on Saturday, March 12, 2022 at The Carriage House after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Dennis was born on September 17, 1953 to the late Roswell and Grace (Prior) Tanner in Bay City. He graduated from Garber High School. After graduation, he courageously joined the United States Air Force. Dennis served for over 20 years, and was a part of Operation Desert Storm, stationed in Diego Garcia. While in the Air Force, he was a security specialist. Dennis earned certification in Combat Police Security, Airbase Ground Defense, and Installation Security. He was a security specialist and material storage and distribution specialist. Dennis received several Medals of Honor. He earned the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with three devices, Air Force Longevity Service Award with three devices, National Defense Service Medal with one device, Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon with two devices, Air Force Overseas Short Tour Ribbon with two devices, Southwest Asia Service Medal with two devices, Air Force Training Ribbon, and The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor Device. Upon returning from his tour in Saudi Arabia, Dennis was stationed at Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda. After completing active duty, he was employed at The Saginaw Correctional Facility for 13 years. Dennis was a lifelong Catholic and devout in his beliefs. He was an avid animal lover and enjoyed fishing, and spending time on the water.
To carry on his legacy, Dennis leaves his sister, Rosalind (Robert) Nielsen; brother, Russell (Susan) Tanner; nephews, Patrick Tanner, Christopher Tanner, John Nielsen, Jay Nielsen, and Dylan Tanner; niece, Elizabeth Rapp; and many cousins and friends. In addition to his parents, Dennis was predeceased by his brother, Michael Tanner.
