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BARK RIVER -- Dennis James Urbanc Sr., of Bark River, Mich., passed December 11, 2020 unexpectedly due to medical complications while home with his wife by his side. Born in Bark River, Mich., on February 23, 1939 to Michael Vincent and Margaret Mary (Heim) Urbanc, he lived most of his life in the immediate area. He attended the local elementary schools and later enrolled at Holy Name Catholic High School in Escanaba, Mich., graduating with the Class of 1957. He was a powerful tackle on the Crusader team and was dubbed with his lasting nickname "Tiny".
As soon as he was able, Dennis joined the Michigan National Guard completing his basic training at Fort Leonard, MO. His early years found him working on his grandfather's farm with many loving cousins, uncles and neighbors. This experience enhanced his natural talents for mechanics, electrical, and artistic abilities. He was a powerful man but a gentle humble spirit at heart. He worked at Ted Mack's Box Co in Wilson and Potter Lumber Company in Powers, later becoming employed at Harnischfeger Corporation in Escanaba until the local company ceased operations in the city. While there, he was a union steward and a welder. He further studied electronics at Bay College and then was self-employed until his retirement.
He met and later married Elizabeth A. Murray on June 18, 1960 in Powers, MI shortly after "Betty" graduated from high school. They soon started their family eventually becoming the parents of six. They recently celebrated 60 years of marriage. They remained very dedicated and loving partners and friends throughout their years. Together they enjoyed and shared responsibilities of cooking, gardening, preserving the harvest for themselves and family and family activities. They loved riding their beloved Harley motorcycle for many years with Dennis riding solo at times or together accompanied by family or friends on many memorable fun-loving excursions. Hunting and spending time at camp were especially enjoyable for him and his family. His respect for firearms and his hunting skills were acquired from his father and passed to his sons. Dennis had a unique and adept skill at reminiscing, sharing tales of past experiences, exhibiting wit and using wisdom in guiding his family by both words of advice or example. One always found him available and eager to participate in holiday gatherings, reunions, events or simply sharing moments as he was able. His home always welcomed all and coffee was ready to share. Dennis was, and his wife remains, God loving servants sharing the Gospel of Christ.
He leaves to survive his loving and devoted wife, Betty, who will deeply miss him; six sons, Todd (Mary) Urbanc of Bark River, Mich., Mark (Lisa) Urbanc of Vulcan, MI, Dr. Michael (Belle) Urbanc of Elyria, OH, Dennis J. (Suzette) Urbanc Jr. of Hudson, FL, Robert (Michelle) Urbanc of Wilson, MI and Joseph (Tiffany) Urbanc of Phoenix, Az; grandchildren, Renee (Nick) Stuible, Scott (Emily) Urbanc, Melissa (Tim) Krzych, Codey (Austin) Urbanc, Tosha (Zachary) Wilkerson, Michael "MJ" Urbanc Jr. and Trevor Urbanc; great grandchildren, Ronni Stuible, Bryce Urbanc and sister Sophia, and was anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new great grandson. In addition, he leaves to survive his loving and cherished sister, Shirley (Ivan) Gagne of Gladstone, Mich.; sister-in-law, Beverly Jepson of Yuma, Ariz.; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Dennis was preceded in death by his loving parents, Michael and Margaret Urbanc of Bark River, MI; in laws Elmer and Eva (Rivest) Murray of Powers, Mich.; brother and friend, James Jepson of Yuma, Ariz.; a dear granddaughter, Krista Urbanc of Marquette, Mich.; infant niece, Mary Theresa of Bark River, Mich.; many cousins and friends who shared in his life; and recent caregivers were of utmost importance to him and he would like them to know he appreciated and valued their love, friendships and caring.
Dennis has chosen cremation and will be laid to rest in Gardens of Rest Cemetery in Wells, Mich.with a memorial service to follow at a later date due to the current COVID-19 crisis. A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net.