Dennis "Denny" Hackbarth

Dennis “Denny” Karl Hackbarth, 87, of Traverse City, and most recently Kingsley, entered the presence of his Savior while at home with loving family by his side.

Denny was born on September 22, 1938, in Des Plaines, Illinois, to the late Herbert and Elinor (Adam) Hackbarth. Following his graduation from high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army National Guard. On September 8, 1962, he married the love of his life, Sandra Marie Swanson, in Chicago, Illinois. Together they shared a loving marriage filled with family, adventure, and countless cherished memories.

Denny earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial design before founding his own consulting and industrial design firm, Omni Craft, an exhibit design and manufacturing company. He dedicated many years to his profession before retiring in 1996.

Retirement allowed Denny to devote even more time to the hobbies he loved. An accomplished craftsman and lifelong aviation enthusiast, he built his own airplanes and took great pride in flying the aircraft he had carefully assembled. He especially loved sharing those experiences with his children and grandchildren, taking them soaring through the skies and even performing aerobatic maneuvers. His favorite airplane was his beautiful Harmon Rocket.

Denny also had a passion for model boats, steamboats, model engines, and model locomotives. He enjoyed restoring and driving Model T Fords, always appreciating the craftsmanship and history behind them.

In 2014, Denny and Sandy moved from Bremen, Indiana, to Long Lake Township, where they embraced retirement in Northern Michigan. They became active members of East Bay Calvary Church, where they formed many lasting friendships.

Denny accepted Jesus Christ as his savior at the age of 39 after his wife and children had prayed for him for seven years. He then grew in his faith due to the many godly friends that surrounded and encouraged him. He often spoke of being aware of the Holy Spirit’s direction in his life. He saw God’s blessings in his family and time spent together.

Denny is survived by his beloved three children, John (Jody) Hackbarth of Kingsley, Matthew (Jeanie) Hackbarth of Kingsley, and Andrea (Philip) Strong of Riverton, WY, ten grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren and his sister Linda Hackbarth.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Elinor Hackbarth, his sister Janice, his beloved wife of 54 years, Sandy and one great grandson, Aivor.

A service celebrating Denny’s life will take place on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 12:00 PM at East Bay Calvary Church. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM. He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. 

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Mission Fund at East Bay Calvary Church of Traverse City, MI in memory of Dennis.