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, his sister, Catherine Harris, 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
Bonnie, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. From your Coworkers at Livengood Estate Sales, LLC. -Patrick Grogg
Cousin Dennis was a part of the Oppman family in many ways, especially our Brunswick days. I know he will be missed by all. -Paul Oppman
To my father-in-law and my friend Dennis Buhring, It was a pleasure being your son-in-law and knowing you for many years, you always made me feel welcome in your house whether it was the holidays or family cookouts. You always wanted to make sure we had something to eat and drink at all times. And you made sure everyone was included. When Bonnie and I first got married, her and I came to Valparaiso a lot, you and I hung out, told stories, and had a great time while they shopped. We watched the Cubs games, talked sports, and honestly I enjoyed spending so much time with you. I always loved to listen to your stories about what it was like to work in the Steel mill. I also very much appreciated the kindness you showed to all three of my boys, whether it was holidays or birthdays you took care of them and always made them feel Welcome. I don’t think there was ever a time when I hung out with Dennis Buhring and was not laughing. Lastly I thank God for the impact you made on me, you looked out for me and my family, and you never failed to make my boys smile and laugh, sitting back and reminiscing on the memories we made, you never failed to make sure anyone in the room ever felt left out. You watched over as a father, and for that I Thank you. -Patrick McClellan
