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Dennis Michael Amstutz, age 69, of Avilla, passed away August 8, 2025, at Parkview Randallia Hospital in Fort Wayne. Denny was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana on June 10, 1956, to Wilfred Jacob "Bill" Amstutz and Carol Virginia "Ginny" (Bobay) Amstutz. Denny was a farrier and involved with horses all his life.
Denny Amstutz was a cherished son, brother, father, grandfather, friend, neighbor, and beloved member of the local horse community. Over the years, Denny built lifelong relationships through his work shoeing horses—connections that quickly grew into family. To him, his clients weren’t just customers; they were part of his heart and home.
Denny was especially proud that his son, Tyler, followed in his footsteps as a farrier. He also beamed whenever he spoke of his daughter, Nikki—proud of the strong, kind woman and loving mother she had become. His heart was never brighter than when he talked about his children, grandkids and there family’s.
He took immense pride in the farm he built with his own two hands—a place filled with laughter, hard work, and countless memories shared with family and friends. Whether four-wheeling around the pond, saddling up the horses for a ride, or making sure the kids had every chance to enjoy the outdoors, Denny was always ready with a smile and an open invitation.
An avid gardener and master canner, Denny loved sharing his latest creations—always eager to show off the rows of jars lining his shelves, each filled with treasures from his own garden. No one left his home without hearing the story behind his secret recipe or leaving with a jar in hand.
Trail rides and horse shows were like second homes to Denny, and weekend rides were never complete without him. Sundays were reserved for family and friends, with Sunday dinners being one of the brightest highlights of his week.
Denny will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of friendship, generosity, and joy will live on in the many lives he touched.
Survivors include:
Daughter, Nikki and Mike Gulick of Albion.
Son, Tyler Amstutz of LaOtto.
The mother of his children, Jennie Cramer of Avilla.
Grandchildren, Jace Amstutz and Gunner Gulick.
Sister, Sandy and Bill Boehm of Angola.
Sister, Cherri and Mike Keller of Fort Wayne.
Brother, Tim Amstutz of Wolf Lake.
Denny was preceded in death by his parents and a sister-in-law, Darlene Amstutz.
Visitation and funeral services will both be held Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Sugar Grove Church of God, 5019 E. 500 S., Churubusco, Indiana. Visitation will take place from 2:00 - 6:00 PM followed by a funeral service at 6:00 PM. Pastor Mark Goeglein will officiate the funeral service.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Denny Amstutz, please visit our floral store.