Dennis "Denny" Jason

Dennis “Denny” Jason, 83, formerly of East Jordan, died Monday, March 4, 2024, at his home in Boyne City.

He was born on October 10, 1940, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Herman M. “Monk” and Olga (Engdal) Jason.

After graduating High School in Okemos, Denny traveled to Wrangle, Alaska to work with his Uncle Ben in the fishing industry. Upon his return to Michigan, he attended Michigan State University where he met Mary Elizabeth Porter, received his bachelor’s degree and became an avid life-long MSU fan. He continued his education by pursuing his MBA from Lake Superior State University.

On July 9, 1966, Denny and Mary Porter were married and moved together to East Jordan, where they soon welcomed Nate, Amy, John and Michael. A move in 1996 to a cabin near the Ironton Ferry became a labor of love and a testament to Denny’s perseverance and his ability to stay the course. He was quiet and unassuming, yet always observant. Once engaged in a cause or project, Denny was fully invested in all his endeavors. And, did he ever invest in his community and his county. 

Denny was the current Charlevoix Drain Commissioner, a member of the Michigan National Guard, a substitute teacher, a referee for high school basketball and football and an elder and deacon of the First Presbyterian Church in East Jordan. Denny enjoyed gardening and was awarded “Gardener of the Year” in East Jordan. With friends, Denny built the stone wall along Division Hill, which still stands today.

Denny dedicated his spare time to numerous causes that strengthened life and nature in The North. He was involved with the Charlevoix County and East Jordan Planning Commissions as well as the Interim City Administrator for East Jordan. In addition, he served on the Charlevoix County Parks Commission and the Boyne City Housing Commission. Denny retired in 2006, as the Director of the Boyne City Department of Public Works after many years. He was a past member of the East Jordan Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow.

Denny was an integral part and strong advocate for the Boyne to Charlevoix Bike Path. He loved the Jordan Valley and, in 2017, at the camp “The Big Woods”, he got his 12 point trophy buck. Denny and Mary were able to take their entire family on a trip to England, France, Ireland and Italy in 2018. One always to do his homework, Denny’s love of history made the experience the trip of a lifetime, complete with a personal tour of the Vatican. Most recently, he was known to drive his yellow Volkswagen Bug around town with his pals, Charley and Teddy, for a treat from McDonalds. A sight we will all remember fondly.

Denny was generous to a fault with his time and energy and a calming presence to those who knew and loved him. Most of all, he was a dedicated family man and husband. He was loving, compassionate, kind, comforting and always willing to help his family whenever needed. Throughout their 57 years, it wasn’t unusual to see Denny and Mary, his best friend and partner, holding hands while spending time together. He would gift Mary flowers anytime, just to let her know how much she was loved, something both Mary and his family treasured. He was one of a kind and he will be missed greatly.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Porter Jason of Boyne City; four children, Nate (Deb) Jason of Boyne City, Amy (David) Boal of Charlevoix, John (Fran) Jason of Traverse City and Michael Jason of Boyne City; five grandchildren; one great grandchild; and one sister, Kathleen (Larry) Rittenberg of Wisconsin.

A memorial service will be held on March 12, 2024 at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, East Jordan.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the First Presbyterian Church or the Charlevoix County Community Foundation.

Arrangements by Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc., East Jordan.

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