Denis Michael Savillo

It is with profound sadness (and just a little disbelief, because honestly, Denis was supposed to outlast us all) that we share the passing of Denis Michael Savillo. He left us unexpectedly but peacefully on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the age of 85. True to form, Denis made his exit with as much grace and humor as he lived, surrounded by his loving family who are still trying to figure out how the world spins without him.

Born on the South Side of Chicago on March 12, 1939, Denis was the beloved son of Delfin and Josephine Halleran Savillo. He was a proud graduate of Mt. Carmel High School, where he began honing the quick wit and charm that would define his life. A man of immense humor, wisdom, and an unwavering need for speed, Denis was always up for the next adventure. If it had an engine or even just a good breeze behind it, he wanted to ride it, drive it, or race it—as long as it went really fast.

His happiest days were spent at his beloved cottage on Finch Lake, where he had been holding court since childhood. He loved nothing more than sitting on the porch, "shooting the breeze" with anyone who stopped by—and there were many, because Denis was just so much fun to talk to. Whether sailing, waterskiing, or simply soaking in the view, the cottage was his sanctuary and the center of his happiest memories.

A proud veteran, Denis served in the U.S. Army with the prestigious 1st Infantry Division, known as the Big Red One. He was a driver for a colonel, navigating with precision and a healthy dose of his signature humor. He also qualified as a sharpshooter, a skill he carried with quiet pride throughout his life.

A dreamer through and through, Denis was lucky enough to be married to his perfect partner, Mary Ellen, for 58 years. She was the planner to his big ideas, the navigator to his wild detours, and the steady hand behind his adventures. Together, they traveled near and far, from jeeping and whitewater rafting to cruising and camping. And, of course, he never missed the opportunity to fire off the cannon every Fourth of July—because what’s a celebration without some good, old-fashioned noise?

Professionally, Denis made a lasting impact on countless lives during his time with Kalamazoo Public Schools, retiring as the principal at Vine Street Alternative School. And if his students thought they could outwit him, well, they learned fast that his love of banter and quick wit made him the undefeated champion of spirited debates. Whether in the classroom or out in the world, Denis never met a stranger—he made friends wherever he went, always curious about their lives, their stories, and, yes, what they had for lunch that day.

Education was a cornerstone of Denis’s life, and he walked the walk by going back to school and earning his master’s degree. (We’re not saying he did it just to wear denim to class, but we wouldn’t put it past him.) He also had a deep connection to his family in the Philippines and cherished the chance to visit with his youngest daughter, Mary Michelle, in 1985. Though COVID thwarted his plans for a return trip, his love for his family and heritage never wavered.

Denis was the life of the party—the guy everyone gravitated to for a laugh, a story, or some well-meaning teasing. He is survived by his wife, Mary Savillo; his daughter Lisa Sikkema (Matt), grandchildren Liana and Jackson; his daughter Mary Michelle Richards (Jeff), grandchildren Jeffrey Michael and Lily; his brother John Savillo (Sandy), and nieces Josephine and Jennifer. They’ll carry forward his legacy of living life to the fullest, always with a smile and a little bit of mischief.

While we can’t imagine life without Denis, we’re pretty sure he’s already up there bantering with St. Peter, asking about his lunch, swapping driving tips with other veterans, and finding the nearest cannon to fire off. We love you, Denis—keep sailing, keep laughing, and keep being the vibrant, unforgettable force you always were.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 11am at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 5855 East W Ave, Vicksburg. The family will be having a Celebration of Life Gathering after the mass at the funeral home on Saturday, December 21st from 1-4pm. 

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Denis’ guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with his family. Those who wish may make contributions to Generous Hands and/or charity of choice. 

The Savillo family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 (269) 344-5600.