Dennis Crippen Gilliland

Born on July 23, 1938, in Warren, Pennsylvania, Dennis lived a life marked by devotion to family, a passion for education and community service, and an enduring commitment to excellence.

Dennis married his high school sweetheart, Joan Karol Kaser, on March 30, 1957. Together they built a loving home and raised three sons: Michael Vaughn (Marie), Patrick Van (Margaret), and Dennis Kaser.

A 1955 graduate of Burton (Ohio) High School, Dennis was a straight-A student and the valedictorian of his class. He was also an exceptional athlete, earning 11 varsity letters in baseball, basketball, football, and track.

Following his B.A. in mathematics from Kent State University, Dennis worked at Goodyear Aerospace in Akron, Ohio, and continued graduate study at Case Institute of Technology in Cleveland. He went on to earn an M.S. in mathematics and a Ph.D. in Statistics from Michigan State University and became a respected leader in his field. His academic career included a year as Visiting Lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley, followed by an extraordinary 49-year tenure as a professor in the Department of Statistics and Probability at Michigan State (1967–2016). He also served as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Chicago, and as an Adjunct Professor at the Michigan State University College of Law.

While much of Dennis’ research was in theoretical realms, he also applied his skills in many practical areas. These range from testifying in court in cases of disputed elections and medical fraud, to matters as mundane as forecasting chicken demand for the annual Okemos Athletic Klub barbeque. His many contributions to the field were recognized in 2004 when Dennis was named a Fellow of the American Statistical Association.

Dennis leaves behind his wife of 68 years, their three sons, and a legacy that will live on in the countless lives he touched. He is survived by his brother Michael Lavay Gilliland, four grandchildren Amber, Aubrey, Max (Alexis), and Mackenzie (Gage), and three great-grandchildren Ailee, Deran, and Theodora. He was pre-deceased by his parents Max Dudley Gilliland and Vivian Crippen Gilliland, and his sister Karen Evans.

Dennis was a unique and great man, and the epitome of selflessness and generosity – always putting others’ needs above his own. He will be remembered for his sharp intellect, his good humor, and the profound impact he had on his students, colleagues, friends, and family.

There will be no services. Donations may be made to the Hospice of Lansing – Stoneleigh Residence.