Dennis Ebel

Dennis Ronald Ebel, 76, of Northwood, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home on July 31, 2026, after a courageous six-year battle with liver cancer.

Born on October 10, 1949, in Detroit, Michigan, to Henry and Rita Ebel, Dennis lived a life defined by service, leadership, hard work, and an unwavering love for his family. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, carrying with him the values of duty and commitment throughout his life.

On September 20, 1970, Dennis married the love of his life, Alice. Together they shared more than 55 years of marriage, building not only a family, but a life filled with adventure, perseverance, and countless cherished memories. Whether traveling the world together, spending time in Las Vegas, or enjoying the beauty and tranquility of Princeville, Hawaii—a place that forever held his heart—their greatest joy was simply being together.

Dennis and Alice were true partners in every sense of the word. In November 1978, they founded D.R. Ebel Fire Equipment Sales and Service, Inc., with a vision of providing quality equipment and dependable service to those who protect their communities. In 1988, they expanded the business by opening a division specializing in emergency lights and sirens. The companies were later united under the name D.R. Ebel Police and Fire Equipment, Inc., becoming a trusted name throughout the region and serving first responders for decades.

Dennis believed in giving back to the community that had given so much to him. He served as Mayor of the City of Northwood from 1996 to 2000, leading with dedication and pride. He was also one of the original members of the Northwood/Oregon Rotary Club, where he devoted many years of service, holding numerous leadership positions, including President. In recognition of his commitment to Rotary’s mission of “Service Above Self,” he was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow.

Although Dennis was proud of the business he built and the offices he held, those who knew him understood that his greatest accomplishments could never be measured by titles alone. He was a man of integrity whose handshake meant something, who believed in treating people fairly, and who built lasting friendships wherever life took him. His greatest pride was not simply building a successful business, but earning the trust, respect, and friendship of the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and public servants he had the privilege to serve throughout his lifetime. Many began as customers and became lifelong friends.

Above all else, Dennis was a devoted family man, with an amazing sense of humor. He treasured every moment spent with those he loved and found his greatest happiness in watching his family grow through each generation.

Dennis is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Alice Ebel; his sons, Dennis (Suzanne) Ebel and Scott Ebel; his grandson, Austin Ebel; his granddaughter, Katlin (Cleve) Wilson; his great-granddaughter, Ellie Wilson; his sisters, Kim (Doug) Trudeau, Marsha (Rick) Bobowski, Rita Baidas, Joy Ebel, and Susan Ebel; his brother, Henry (Glor) Ebel; sister-in-laws, Barb Ebel, and Beth Lengel; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Rita Ebel; his father- and mother-in-law, Don and Hilda Niven; his brother, Mike Ebel; his sisters, Lynda Miller and Nancy Ebel; brother-in-law, Stan Miller and his nephew, Daniel Ebel.

Dennis leaves behind a legacy that will endure through his family, the business he built alongside Alice, the community he served, and the countless first responders whose lives and work were touched by his generosity, dedication, and friendship. His life was one of purpose, his example one of service, and his memory one that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at:
D.R. Ebel Police & Fire Equipment
3203 Woodville Road
Northwood Ohio 43619
on October 10th from 1-4pm.