Michael J. Denest, age 72, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 9, 2025.

Born in Wilmington, Michael was the son of the late Doris (Corazzo) and Joseph Denest. He graduated from Bishop Shanahan High School and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL. He went on to serve his country proudly in the United States Air Force. Michael spent over 30 years working for The Boeing Company as a Lab Technician prior to his retirement.

Michael is survived by his wife of 18 years, Diane E (Romanelli) Denest; his stepchildren, Jennifer White (Adam) and Brian Lachance (Molly); his step grandchildren, Averly, August, Bowen, and Aurelia; his siblings, Linn DeNesti (Greg), Lisa Bell (Jeff), and Mark Denest (Carolyn); his niece, Molly and nephew, Eric.

Michael very much enjoyed the field of aviation. He flew, and along with his father and brother, helped to restore World War II era planes. He also enjoyed his hobbies of flying remote control airplanes as well as sailing remote control sailboats. He belonged to several remote control flying and sailing groups.

Funeral services for Michael will be held at Deerfield Country Club, 507 Thompson Station Rd, Newark, DE 19711 on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 11:30 A.M., followed by a Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 1500 Rosecrans Ave Suite 200, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Online condolences may be made to mealeyfuneralhomes.com.