Dennis John Jarvi

Dennis John Jarvi was born in Highland Park, Michigan on 19 June 1955 and passed away on May 18, 2024. The son of Charles and Patricia Jarvi grew up in Marlette Michigan. He attended Marlette High School and graduated Cum Laude from Western Michigan University in 1977 with a BA degree in Applied Mathematics. He graduated from Maryville University in 1990 with a MS degree in Management.

Dennis was commissioned in August 1977 after completing Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola, Florida and was designated a Naval Aviator in April 1979. In December 1984, he was released from active duty after attaining over 2000 flight hours and 435 carrier arrested landings, flying both A-7E Corsair and F/A - 18 Hornet.

Dennis joined the Navy Reserves in 1987 and was assigned to The Naval Plant Representative Office, McDonnell Douglas in St. Louis, MO, NR Deputy Chief of Naval Operations/Political Affairs in the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. He affiliated with NR Commander in Chief of US Naval Forces Europe in London, England, The Air Systems Program and NR Defense Contract Management Command in St. Louis, Mo and assumed Command of NR USS Independence CV62 at Naval Air Reserve Activity, Selfridge, Michigan. Dennis retired from the Naval Reserve in 1999.
Commander Jarvi was awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation (2 awards), Battle "E", Navy Expeditionary Medal (2 awards), National Defense Service Medal and the Sea Service Ribbon (2 awards).

Dennis worked in Executive Management positions in the Aerospace Industry and traveled extensively.

Dennis was a devoted and loving husband to Dana whom he married in 1982. He was a loving and caring father to Michelle Jerome Habonneau) , Elizabeth (Gavin Grady) , Matthew and Laura. And beloved grandfather to Eloise and Theodore Habonneau, Abel, Henry, Oliver, Finn, Athena and Odin Grady. Dennis is survived by his sisters, Joanne Ruggles and Doreen Murphy and one brother, Bill Jarvi.

Dennis truly loved and enjoyed his family as he took them on amazing trips abroad and in the States. Many fond memories of our family adventures keep him in our heart. He was a mathematical wizard, loved playing cards, racquetball, flying planes, walking and hiking. One to never slow down, he was always on the go and was an active participant at Trinity Ecumenical Parish, providing Christ Care Classes, New Member Small Group Classes, Board Member, and always helping at Trinity Treasures each year.

Dennis will be laid to rest on July 15, 2024, at 2:30PM in Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Jarvi family.