Dennis Lee Ewald

Dennis Lee Ewald of Caro, age 73, went to be with the Lord on Monday, August 10, 2026 while at Hills & Dales Healthcare. He was born on July 1, 1953 in Caro, the son of the late Alvin Clifford and Maxine Marie (Munger) Ewald.

He graduated from Caro High School with the Class of 1971, where he was involved in FFA and served on the Parliamentary Procedure Team.

Dennis’s Christian faith was a constant throughout his life. A lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, his faith and church family were an important part of who he was. From childhood through adulthood, St. Paul remained his church home, and his faith helped guide him through the joys and challenges of his life.

Following high school, Dennis attended Concordia College in Ann Arbor, earning an associate degree in 1974. He continued his education at Concordia Teachers College in River Forest, Illinois, graduating in 1976 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.

After working with the recreation department at Tuscola Intermediate School District, he began teaching in the TISD School District in 1977 after completing work toward his special education endorsement at Central Michigan University. He later developed and taught a program at the TISD State Hospital site that was recognized by the State of Michigan and used as a model for other facilities. In 1993, Dennis began teaching at Marlette High School, where he found a position and a community he greatly enjoyed.

Music was another lifelong passion. Dennis played the accordion and shared his musical talents throughout the area. His love of polka music became an especially meaningful part of his life, including his years performing with Denney and the Music Makers. In 2007, Dennis was inducted into the Michigan State Polka Hall of Fame, an honor recognizing his contribution to polka music. He continued playing with Denney and the Music Makers until 2009.

Those who knew Dennis will remember a man whose life touched many different circles; students and fellow educators, musicians and polka enthusiasts, friends and neighbors, and most importantly, his family. Whether he was in a classroom, behind an accordion, working on an old tractor or enjoying the woods at Priceless Acres, Dennis found meaning in the people and pursuits closest to him.

Left to cherish Dennis’ memory is his daughter, Amanda Mae Ewald; siblings, Dean Ewald & his special friend Betty Jo and Dwain (Tammy) Ewald; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Dennis was preceded in death by his brother, Darrel Ewald; sister, Darcy Ewald; and sister-in-law, Joan Ewald.

Dennis’ memorial service will be on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro. Dennis’ family will be present to receive visitors from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Dwain Ewald, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.