Dennis H. Minkel, age 78, a Manitowoc resident, passed away Sunday, August 4, 2024 at his home.

He was born July 1, 1946 in northern Wisconsin, son of the late Elmer and Lorraine (Shampeau) Minkel. Dennis graduated from Wabeno High School, Wabeno, Wisconsin. On November 5, 1988, he married the love of his life Diane Gagnon in Manitowoc. Dennis was employed with various local factories, retiring from Metalware. He was an avid deer hunter and fisherman. He also enjoyed playing cards at the Manitowoc Senior Center. Dennis was a skilled handyman and carpenter who enjoyed helping family and friends with projects. Above all, he treasured being a father and grandfather. Over the last few years, Dennis faced many medical challenges including cancer and he conquered them all.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife: Diane Minkel; three children: Melissa Wright (Woodrow), James Logan (Gwen), and Alicia and Sean Neuser; grandchildren: Hailey, Sarah, Madison, Taylor, Jade, Alyece, Lucian, Sevryn, and Isis; great-grandchildren: Lili, Logan, Zaneta, Harper, Emberlee, and Theodore; and three nephews: Kevin (Tina) Minkel, Scott Minkel, and Steve Minkel. Great-nieces, great-nephews, other relatives, many friends, and his beloved dog Theo also survive. He was preceded in death by his parents: Elmer and Lorraine Minkel; his brother: Charles Minkel; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law: Mark and Alice Gagnon.

Cremation has occurred at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory, Manitowoc. A life celebration will be held at Lincoln Park, Cabin 1, 1215 N. 8th St., Manitowoc, on Monday, August 26, 2024. The family will receive guests at 4:00p.m. until 8:00p.m. Food and refreshments will be served at 5:00p.m.

The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, Manitowoc, is assisting the Minkel family with funeral arrangements. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family by visiting www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com.

…You always think you have more time.

He knows he was loved tremendously and everyone who knows him, thought the world of him, and for good reason.

"Unsinkable ships sink. Unbreakable walls break. Sometimes the things you think would never happen, happen just like that. Unbendable steel bends. If the fury of the wind is unstoppable, I've learned to never underestimate the impossible." – Joe Nichols