Final Salute

Dennis Lee Turmell Jr., age 55 of Midland passed away at his home in his sleep on Sunday, April 6th, 2025. He was born on May 31st, 1969, in Bay City, Michigan. The only child of the late Dennis & Ruthann (Randall) Turmell. While growing up, he was unofficially adopted by the Lester family where they took him in, treated him like their own and gave him the family he needed.

Dennis proudly served in the United States Navy as a Seabee for 20 years. He had many deployments. Two which were under combat conditions. During his 20-year service, Dennis displayed acts of heroism that changed the lives of many. Some would say he is a hero for these acts but if you asked him, he would tell you that he was just doing what anyone would do.

He had two children from his first marriage, he loved more than life. Dennis reconnected with his high school sweetheart and soulmate Mindy in 2009. They were married on November 13th, 2009. With their marriage, the family grew. Dennis gained four bonus children and, in his words, “one big dysfunctional family” but he loved it and would not have it any other way.

Dennis was a proud member of the Armed Forces Motorcycle Club. Through the club, he gained many loyal brothers who had his back for over 13 years. He served as the Secretary, treasurer and Michigan State President.

Dennis was brave, courageous, smart, strong, humble, funny and witty. His greetings usually started with a cheesy dad joke or a sarcastic comment, but he would be the first person to give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He had many hobbies that he enjoyed, which included, riding his Harley with his wife and brothers, tinkering, playing darts, all things spooky as well as collecting skulls and the most random Temu products he could find. In his later years, his biggest passion became following in his father’s footsteps by playing the bass guitar in a band, Orchard Hillbilly’s.

Dennis is survived by his children; Sarah (David) Swanson, Allison (Nathan) Blair, Jessica Spegel; sons, Matthew (Haley) Turmell, Tyler Spegel, Max Stukel; grandchildren, Lola Cherwinski, Charlotte Swanson, Greyson, Fynn and Charlotte Turmell, Emma Stoddard and Ella Dirker; brothers Archie Lester, Doubletake, Awol, Badger, Chewy, Pushstart, Panhead, Jaws, Rhino, Harvey, Road Rage, The Jew, Patriot, PhD, Munce and many many more; special friends Joe and Becca Saladine, Shawn and Brian Martin, Tracy Ignace and Lynn Rowley. He is also survived by his best buddy and unofficial therapy dog Thor.

Dennis was predeceased by his dad, Dennis Sr. and has reconnected yet again in the after life with his wife and best friend Mindy.

Cremation has taken place per Dennis’s wishes. A celebration of life will take place from 1pm-5pm on April 19th, 2025, at the American Legion of Sanford.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the family in his honor.

Smith-Miner Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Turmell Family; to share a special memory please visit www.smithminer.com