Dennise "Gigi" E. Grinnell

Dennise Eileen Grinnell, age 75, passed away on July 27, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, selflessly enduring a courageous 10-year battle with cancer while making her family the center of her life. She was born on May 5, 1951, in Tecumseh, Michigan, to Martin Henry Ivan and Blanche Mildred (Cevora) Ivan.

Dennise graduated from Britton High School with the Class of 1969. After marrying the love of her life, David Grinnell, she returned to school to pursue her passion for caring for others, earning her Registered Nursing degree from North Central Michigan College. Throughout her distinguished career, Dennise served as a bedside nurse, worked in healthcare administration, managed five Vital Care retail stores, and later served as a home healthcare manager. She was respected for her compassion, leadership, and dedication to improving the lives of others.

Above all, Dennise treasured her family. She loved attending her grandchildren's sporting events and dance recitals, celebrating every milestone with pride and enthusiasm. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel valued and special. Whether she was traveling to Florida, baking her famous cookies and fudge, greeting at church, or enjoying a long conversation with family and friends, Dennise's warm heart and outgoing personality left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Dennise is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 55 years and 23 days, David Grinnell; her children, Ryan (Angela) Grinnell, Andrew (Krystn) Grinnell, and Benjamin (Aimee) Grinnell; and her cherished grandchildren, Martin, Miles, Luke, Aubree, Ella, Lilee, Micah, Maxwell, Wilson, Henry, Mylee, Nolan, and Ava. She is also survived by sisters Donna Benedict and Dianne Szymanski, brother Kenneth (Shirley) Ivan and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026 at 3:00pm at Girrbach Funeral Home, 328 South Broadway Street, Hastings, Michigan 49058 with Visitation one hour prior at 2:00pm. Following the funeral service, everyone is invited to gather in the funeral home's lunchroom for a reception and a time of fellowship with the family.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Girrbach Funeral Home of Hastings, Michigan. To leave online condolences for the family, please visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.