Jeffrey John Deno

Jeffrey "Jeff" John Deno, age 59, of Muskegon, Michigan passed away on August 23, 2026. He was born on April 9, 1967 in Pontiac, Michigan to James and Lois (Funnell) Deno. Jeff passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. His parents had three children including Jeff, his brother David "Dave" ( Jonathan) Deno. He attended Muskegon Community College for CNC programming. During his youth Jeff engaged in hiking, horseback riding, and polishing stones.
Later in life he became a self taught mechanic and guitarist. Throughout his time on Earth, Jeff's love for the outdoors was constant. He enjoyed planting a garden from seed every season. His fondness for Lake Michigan was a known thing. His dear ones could attest to heartfelt conversation alongside a warm memory at the beach. He is survived by his wife, Robin (Maue) Deno. They experienced 24 years of marriage together. Their wedding took place on April 14, 2002 in Muskegon, Michigan. Jeff began his journey into fatherhood at the young age of 16 with the birth of his daughter, Heather (Deno) Sickels. Heather fondly remembers her father's work ethic and dedication to providing for his family, along with the little jam sessions he enjoyed with friends. Jeff was rarely one to sit still; he could often be found working on something around the house, tinkering with a vehicle , or finding another project to keep his hands busy. He was also incredibly talented when it came to drawing, with an artistic ability that Heather remembers as truly amazing.
Together Jeff and Robin had their daughter Gabby (Deno) Terpenning. He gained two stepsons, Anthony (Anna) Cunningham and Nicholas (Cynthia) Cunningham. Together Jeff and Robin shared in love a total of eight grandchildren. From his daughter Heather (Greg) came Americus, Hadeigh, Nevaeh, Cody, and Abel. From his daughter Gabby (Jonathon) came Jonathon II. From Anthony (Anna) came Landon and Ella. Jeff had an unique gift of tenderness that drew both children and animals to him. His dogs, Judah and Jewels were his beloved companions up until the very end. Jeff was the kind of guy that was quiet until you got him talking. He had a dry sense of humor that would almost slip by unless you slowed to catch it. Jeff was filled with knowledge about cars, animals, music, horticulture, and an assortment of facts.
While his absence leaves a place that can never be filled, his family is grateful for the years God gave them with him. A week prior to his passing on August 16th, he rededicated his life to Christ and was baptized personally by his son-in-law Greg Sickels. Jeff's story was not a perfect one, but it was his story-a life filled with lessons, love, hardships, growth, and memories that will continue through the generations. His family will honor his memory by carrying forward the things he taught them and holding tight to the hope that, through Christ, goodbye is not forever.
Jeff was preceded in death by Carl "Forest" Funnell (grandfather), Marguerite Funnell (Grandmother), Gerald Wright (Uncle), Carol Wright (Aunt), James Funnell (Uncle), Charles Funnell (Uncle), Kyle Boisvert (Cousin), and Stephanie Deno (Sister).
Feel welcome to join the family's "Sunset Celebration of Life" for Jeffrey on August 29th at 3:00pm. It will be held at West Michigan Worship Center, 1430 Hendrick Rd, Norton Shores, Michigan, 49441. There will be a service with food to follow. White, tan/cream, light blue attire is suggested but not required. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that monetary donations be given at this time.