2019 Michael Craig Dennis
Name: Michael Craig Dennis
Type of Donation: Tissue and cornea donor
Age and Location: Age 58 – Stanchfield, MN
Donation Date: 2/16/2014
Sponsor: Honored by American Donor Services in partnership with VRL-Eurofins
MICHAEL’S STORY
Michael Craig Dennis loved life, his family and God. He was a hardworking, honest, loyal man, who lit up the room with his smile, when he walked in. He was outgoing and could strike up a conversation with anyone.
Michael worked 32 years for UPS, including 20 years working as a semi-truck driver. During his time at UPS, he was active in the Teamsters Union and supported his fellow workers as a Union Steward. When he retired, he dedicated his time to his family (including his special granddaughter Vera) and his other full-time job: farming. He loved the land and raising cattle, a passion that started when he was in high school.
Michael would have loved meeting and teaching his three grandsons, Craig, Trey (Michael III), and Jack about farming, as future helpers on the farm! Mike would help anyone with anything. He was a caring, selfless, pay-it-forward type of man. He never expected anything in return for himself. He always said that his hope was that if some day one of his family members needed help, someone would be there for them. He always had time to listen to people and had the ability to see past problems, and find solutions.
Michael was a blessing to his wife (Kay) and children (Mike Jr. and Jess) as he was always so positive and could find a bright spot in any problem. Mike died in a tragic accident at the age of 58. He was a strong believer in being an organ donor and encouraged others to be donors as well. He would be amazed and honored to know that, in addition to being a cornea donor, he has helped 79 people as a cardiovascular and tissue donor. Mike would have been so humbled and honored to know that he was being recognized on the Donate Life Float.