Dennis Leroy Gess

Dennis Gess, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, teacher, lifelong student of history, and Christian, passed away on September 13, 2026 in Trenton, Michigan, at the age of 83. He will be remembered for his intelligence, strong convictions, dedication to education, and the lasting impression he made on the many people who knew him.

Dennis was born on March 16, 1943, and grew up in the Niles, Michigan, area on the family farm, where his parents raised grapes, strawberries, and asparagus. His years on the farm helped shape his appreciation for hard work, nature, and gardening.

Dennis completed his undergraduate studies at Western Michigan University, earned a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University, and received an endorsement from Rutgers University.

He devoted more than 40 years to teaching social studies and history at both the middle-school and high-school levels in the Lee County, Florida, and Grosse Ile, Michigan, school districts.

Teaching was one of Dennis’s greatest commitments. He brought extensive knowledge, curiosity, and firmly held opinions to the classroom. He encouraged students to think critically, engage with history and politics, and embrace their responsibilities as citizens.

Dennis was direct and intellectually engaged, willing to ask difficult questions and challenge students to explain and defend their ideas. His approach was distinctive, and many of his students remembered him long after leaving his classroom.

On December 13, 1975, Dennis married Paula Barnes. Together, they built a family and shared many years of life, work, faith, and memories. They raised three children: Erin Wozniak, married to Paul Wozniak; Douglas Gess, married to Tiffany; and Robert Gess.

Dennis was the brother of Ellen Willis and a proud grandfather to Logan Wozniak, married to Cora, and Lauren, married to Dennis Lobb. He was also a great-grandfather to Evelyn, Winslow, Kaylee, and Walter. His family remained an important part of his life, and he took particular interest in the lives and accomplishments of each generation.

Outside of teaching, Dennis had an intense love of gardening, politics, and history. He enjoyed cultivating plants, following public affairs, and engaging in thoughtful conversation and debate. He approached the subjects that mattered to him with energy and conviction and was never reluctant to share his perspective.

Dennis was an active member of Community Bible Church in Trenton, Michigan, for many years. As an adult, he trusted Christ for his salvation, and his faith remained an important part of his life.

Dennis leaves behind a legacy of learning, inquiry, perseverance, and commitment. He will be remembered by his family, former students, colleagues, church community, and friends for his knowledge, strong character, directness, and unmistakable presence. His influence will continue through the lessons he taught, the gardens he tended, the conversations he sparked, and the family he leaves behind.