Dennis Wayne Adams

Dennis “Denny” Wayne Adams, 69, of York Springs, PA, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on April 6, 2025.

Born November 6, 1955, in Dauphin County, Denny was the son of the late John Q. Adams and Mary L. (Gregory) Adams. He was preceded in death by his son, Nicholas B. Adams, and brother-in-law, Gary R. Miller. Denny was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was a hardworking and skilled mechanic for over 50 years, proudly owning and operating his own automotive repair shop for more than four decades. His dedication to his craft and the people he served left a lasting impression on his community.

A man of many passions, Denny was, in the past, a proud member of both ABATE of PA and a veterans/first responder color guard. He also participated in Civil War reenactments with the 11th Pennsylvania. His deep love for history was matched by his joy in exploring it, whether through study, reenactment, or conversation. He found peace and freedom riding his motorcycle through the Narrows and countryside, savoring the quiet beauty of the open road.

Denny was a spiritual man and a devoted Christian who strove to live according to the Lord’s word. He had a unique gift for making others feel calm amidst life’s chaos, and his presence brought comfort to many. Denny hand-built his own cabin in the woods, a true labor of love, and lent his skills to the construction of two more. One of his most meaningful contributions was crafting the three wooden crosses that now hang with reverence in the foyer of Gettysburg Baptist Church.

On January 18 of this year, Denny and his beloved wife, Diane L. (Felix) Adams, celebrated 50 years of marriage, a testament to their love, resilience, and deep bond. Alongside Diane, Denny is survived by his daughter, Amanda M. (Adams) Runk and her husband, Shane K. Runk; his cherished grandchildren, Alana L. Adams, Fiona I. Adams, Kolt N. Runk, Kairi S. Runk, and Karina N. Runk; his half-sister, Gail Bell; and his sisters, Sherry A. Miller and Valerie A. Warner and her husband, Clark W. Warner.

Denny was also a pilot, a builder, a storyteller, and a man who never stopped learning. His memory will live on through the lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.

Professional services are entrusted to Dugan Funeral Home, Inc., 111 South Main St., Bendersville. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Gettysburg Baptist Church, 95 Fairview Rd., Gettysburg, PA 17325. Visitation will be from 10:00 –11:00 AM, all who knew Denny are welcome to attend and celebrate his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) of Hanover and Spring Grove by phone (717) 637-1227 or through their website, in appreciation for the compassionate care they provided Denny in his final months. You can also honor his memory by taking a quiet ride through a place you love, sharing a story with a loved one, or offering kindness to a stranger, just as he always did. Friends may express online condolences at www.DuganFH.com.