Dennis S. Nielsen

Age 74, a longtime resident of Northville, passed away on July 29, 2013. He was born May 3, 1939 in Detroit, Michigan; son of Ejvind and Josephine (Reil) Nielsen. He graduated from Wayne State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, minoring in Economics. Dennis was united in marriage on October 12, 1963 to Sandra L. Lyons and they spent 49 loving years together. He retired as a supervisor with the Remanufactured Parts Division of Ford Motor Company in 1993 after 30 years with the company. Following his retirement he worked for AER Manufacturing in Carrollton, TX. Dennis has been an active member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Northville since 1966; his involvement included Sports Director, EME, and Knights of Columbus where he served as the Treasurer. He was a member of Birmingham Senior Men's Club, Northville Historical Society, and Past President of Ford Retirees Golf League. Dennis adored his family, especially his grandsons; his family and church were everything to him. He was very generous and charitable; he volunteered at Tollgate, and was a Salvation Army Bell Ringer. His favorite pastime was golfing, and he also enjoyed walking. Dennis, a Master Gardener, also enjoyed visiting Greenfield Village, The Henry Ford Museum, and watching Detroit Symphony Orchestra perform. He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra L. Nielsen; his son Michael C. Nielsen; his grandsons, Tyler C. Nielsen and Travis D. Nielsen; his brother, Arnold D. (Patricia) Nielsen. He was also loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his son Daniel Nielsen, his sister Linda Nielsen, and his parents. The visitation will be held Thursday, August 1, 2013 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. with a Rosary at 7 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 W. Dunlap, Northville. The Funeral Mass will be held Friday, August 2, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. with visitation beginning 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, 46325 Ten Mile Road, Novi. Memorial contributions would be appreciated to St. Paul of the Cross, 23333 Schoolcraft, Detroit, MI 48223 or UMCCC Pancreatic Cancer Program Fund - 308187, U of M Office of Development, 3003 S. State St., Ste. 9000, Ann Arbor, MI 48109.