Loretta Jane Dennis, 94, of Ludington, passed away Thursday, December 7, 2017, at home surrounded by her loving family.  She was born October 7, 1923, in Ludington, the daughter of William and Maryanna (Kowalczyk) Sherlock.

Loretta worked at the Ludington Daily News prior to being married. While her children were young, Loretta stayed home and took care of her family. She loved the countless hours they spent swimming in Lake Michigan, fishing on Hamlin Lake and camping at State Parks. Once her children were grown, Loretta worked as a hostess at Gibb's Country House for over 10 years. Loretta grew up attending St. Simon's School, and after she was married, raised her family as members of St. Stanislaus Parish which was near their home in Fourth Ward. Loretta had been an active member of the Catholic Daughters and Royal Neighbors. More than anything else, Loretta loved spending time with her family. She had a passion for animals, especially cats and dogs, which she passed on to her children. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren think they couldn't have asked for a better grandma.

On September 9, 1950, in Ludington, Loretta married Richard "Dick" Dennis, who survives her.  She is also survived by: 3 children, Richard "Dick" Dennis Jr. of Ludington, Mary Kay Dennis of Ludington, and Jim (Liz) Dennis of Elsie; 5 grandchildren, Ginger (Jeremy) Hankiewicz of Grand Rapids, Jessica Dennis of Ovid, Richard "D.J." Dennis III of East Lansing, Thomas "T.J." Dennis of Grand Rapids, and Chelsea (Chad DuRussell) Dennis of Grand Rapids; 3 great-grandchildren, Taylor (Alec) Smith of East Lansing, Jakob Kares of Grand Rapids, and Hannah Dennis of East Lansing; her sister, Margaret Marrison of Ludington; her brother, William (Mary) Sherlock of Ludington; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Loretta was preceded in death by: her son, Thomas Michael Dennis; her sister, Alice Marie Davis; and her brother, John Sherlock.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 PM, Monday, December 11, 2017, at St. Simon Catholic Church, in Ludington, with Father Wayne B. Wheeler presiding.  Interment will be in the Pere Marquette Cemetery in the spring.  Visitation will be held Sunday, December 10, 2017, from 6-8 PM with a time to pray the Rosary at 7:30 PM, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel, Ludington.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Simon Catholic Church for Ludington Area Catholic School or to Second Chance Humane Society.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com