Dennis "Denny" Cornelius

Dennis (Denny) Cornelius, of the Oneida Nation, passed away on December 10, 2025 at the age of 67.

Born on May 10th in Detroit, Michigan, Denny’s quiet humor could bring laughter to a room with just a few words. Those who knew him best will remember his easy going "no problem" willingness to lend a hand where he could. If you needed something Denny was only a call away, ready to show up for his family and friends. A mechanic at heart, Denny found purpose and peace in the hum of an engine and breathing life back into a car. For him it wasn't just fixing cars, it was pride in offering care to others.

Denny is survived by his siblings: Ronald (Janice) Cornelius, Fredrick Cornelius, Barbara McIntyre, Leland Cornelius Jr, Charlene (Tom) Cornelius, Denise (John) Moore, Sharon (John) Collins, Carol (Angel) Colon, and brother-in-law Damian Colon. He is also survived by several generations of nieces and nephews whose lives are brighter for the humor he shared and lessons taught. They carry his legacy of finding humor in the small things and strength in the hard ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leland and Juanita (Powless) Cornelius; siblings Keith Cornelius, Judith Colon, and Cheryl (Richard "Jim") Christensen; brother-in-law Scott McIntyre and sister-in-law Theresa Cornelius; and nephew Erik Wingle.

Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he leaves behind are a reminder of the gentle spirit he brought to the world.