Dennis J. Shook

All who knew Dennis Shook would agree that life was certainly more interesting when he was around. Whether it was his fun-loving personality, the kind gestures he willingly gave towards those around him, or his off the cuff humor, Denny liked to keep those around him on their toes. Although Denny worked hard, there was nothing closer to his heart than his family as it was easy to see that his son and grandchildren were his greatest source of pride and joy. A lover of the outdoors, Denny felt drawn to the peace and fulfillment that only being in the woods could bring. With what would seem to be so many years left to love those around him, Denny’s bright light was extinguished much too soon.

Much can be said about the fifties as this was an unprecedented time in American history. Sometimes called the “Nifty Fifties,” this decade was one that introduced us to James Dean and shows such as I Love Lucy and Father Knows Best while rock n’ roll exploded onto the music scene thanks to greats like Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis. Amidst this vibrant time, there was much to celebrate for Bob and Ruth (Culbertson) Shook since it was on December 31, 1951, that they welcomed their son, Dennis James, into their hearts and home. Born at William Crisp Hospital in Plainwell, Dennis was the fourth of seven children in his family including his three brothers Frank, Art, and Floyd, and his three sisters, Pinkie, Linda, and Melody. Although born in Plainwell, Denny was raised in Martin. He attended local schools including Martin High School where he played both baseball and football. Denny graduated as part of the class of 1970.

As a young man, Denny became acquainted with the young girl who would forever hold the key to his heart. Her name was Terry Middlestadt and they met while roller skating. Drawn to each other, the couple began dating including frequent visits to the Satellite Cafeteria for some fries. Together they welcomed the birth of their son, Tod, whom they both adored. After a couple of years, Terry was convinced that Denny was a keeper so they became husband and wife on July 5, 1974.

In order to provide for his family, Denny worked hard in a variety of industries. His time in the workforce took him to Parker-Hannifin, United Tech, Mead, Graphic Packaging, and for the past five years to Perrigo where he worked as a tablet mixer. Denny was always dedicated to his work and well liked by his coworkers. He in turn always enjoyed the people he worked with and made many great friends.

When he was blessed with free time, Denny filled his time with so many things that enriched his life. First and foremost was always spending time with those he loved. When his family grew to include grandchildren, Denny loved seeing them as often as he could. He always enjoyed watching sports, but doing so took on a whole new meaning when he was watching either his son or one of his three grandchildren play or compete. Denny liked playing both softball and golf, and he seemed to always be fixing this or that around the house since he was a true tinkerer by nature. Next to his family, Denny’s true passion was for the outdoors, especially for being in the woods. This love naturally led to many of his interests and hobbies including fishing, camping, canoeing, and mushroom hunting. Denny also enjoyed deer hunting with his brother, Floyd, as often as time allowed. Since he loved history, Denny could frequently be found watching the History Channel or Little House on the Prairie reruns.

In so many ways, Denny brought such happiness to those around him. He was a quiet man by nature, but when he spoke it was usually a good idea to listen since Denny’s words were often laced with great advice or perhaps his quick-witted humor. In fact, you never really knew what he might say next! Denny was articulate and was able to think everything through, which made him very deliberate in both his actions and words.

There are some who seem to whittle away their days going through the motions, just trying to make it through each new day while never really impacting the world around them. Nothing could be further from the truth when reflecting on the life of Denny Shook as he was a vibrant man with a contagious zest for life coupled with a huge heart. A dedicated family man, he treasured his family and loved spending time with them more than anything else in the world. Denny was willing to work hard, but he played hard, too, and never took one day for granted. A friend to all, he will be deeply missed and warmly remembered.

Dennis James Shook died on January 24, 2011. Denny’s family includes his wife of 37 years, Terry Lynn, his son Tod (Lisa) Shook, three grandchildren; Chaela, Tristan, and Taryn; his siblings, Frank (Norine) Stahlhood, Art Shook, Pinkie (Randy) Colwell, Floyd (Lynn) Shook, Linda Stull and Melody (Cliff) Henckel; many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; several dear friends; and Robin Knauss and her daughters Aubrey and Cassandra Knauss. Denny was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law, Lawrence Sr. & Marie Middlestadt; and his sister-in-law Caroline Prolo. Visit with his family and friends, view his life story film, and share light refreshments on Friday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. & 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Life Story Funeral Home, Plainwell; 120 S. Woodhams (685-5881). A Funeral will be held on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Plainwell; 200 Park Street. Please visit Dennis’ memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can archive a memory and photo, sign his memory book online before coming to the funeral home, and make a memorial donation to American Cancer Society or a Fund for the grandchildren’s education.