Dennis “Denny” Buhring, Sr., of Valparaiso, known to many as “Denny from Gary,” a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, and lifelong Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan, passed away on May 6, 2026 at the age of 84. His life was defined by loyalty — to his family, to his friends, to his hometown roots, and to the teams he stood by through every high and low.
Born and raised in Gary, Indiana, Dennis carried the pride of his hometown throughout his life. He worked at U.S. Steel Gary Works for 31 years, building a reputation as a hardworking, dependable man who showed up every day and gave his best. His work ethic was steady, strong, and unmistakably his.
Dennis shared 33 years of marriage with his loving wife, Lynn Buhring, his partner, best friend, and constant source of strength. Their life together was built on love, humor, and the kind of quiet steadiness that holds a family together.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Rita Nardini, his sister Sally Orban, and his daughter Sherry Lynn, all of whom he carried in his heart every day.
He is survived by his five children: Bonnie (Pat) McClellan, Dennis (Laura) Buhring Jr., Jimmy (Cory) Buhring, Mike (Denise) Luwpas, and Tammy (Bob) Madden. Dennis was a proud grandfather to: Skyler (Josh), Logan, Jade, Stephanie (Jim), Michelle (Andrew), Shane (Olencia), Jaadyn (Hayleigh), Josiah, Ian (Jade), and Sean (Kelsey). He was a loving great‑grandpa to his precious great‑grandchildren: Kai, Avery, Julia, Riley, and Aveline. He is also remembered with love by his best friends Marge and Tony Galardo, who were like family to him, and by his special cousin, Doug Oppman, with whom he shared a lifelong bond.
His grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, and extended family filled his life with laughter, stories, and moments he treasured deeply.
Whether it was a Sunday afternoon with the Bears or a summer day watching the Cubs, Dennis found happiness in the traditions that brought his family together. He believed in loyalty, hope, and sticking with the people — and the teams — you love. That spirit lives on in everyone who knew him.
In accordance with Denny’s wishes, cremation will take place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
GUESTBOOK
The first time I met Pops, he made me feel like family, like he had known me my whole life. He was a good man, and will be deeply missed. One if my favorite people. Rest in Peace, Pops. You are loved and missed. -Denise Luwpas
Randy and I will miss Denny’s wonderful sense of humor that kept us in stitches each time we saw him. We enjoyed our endless conversations on their front porch, talking about his past life and his amazing stories that made me wonder how he was still alive lol. He would yell at my husband across the street calling him Wino, and Randy would always yell back hey Budman and Go Cubs. Lynn and Denny aren’t just our neighbors they are family. 20+ years of knowing if we ever needed anything they were there. Denny we will always take care of your girl! From now on overtime we watch the Cubs we will think of Denny. We love you Budman!!! -Genia Wilgus
