The tanning industry recently lost a beloved veteran: Michigan salon operator, Dennis McCormick, who died November 20, 2018 at the age of 66. According to his obituary, McCormick was born December 13, 1951 in Gary, IN. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Joyce, and four children.
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Owner of the Malibu Tan salon chain for the past 20 years, McCormick had a passion for fast cars, especially Corvettes, and was also a HAM radio operator. Many recall his love of music, singing and telling jokes – to wit, his LinkedIn page lists him (kiddingly) as “janitor,” not salon owner! Many in our industry knew him and did business with him, including some who took this opportunity to pass on their fond memories and condolences.
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“I knew Dennis for 20 years. He attended our Solar Seminar events and loved the industry. He was an honorable man and good friend to many. He will certainly be missed.”
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Vince Lorraine – Publisher, IST Magazine
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“I really enjoyed Dennis. He was full of life and always cracking wild jokes and relentlessly teased me. His whole family was involved in Malibu Tan (and Club Tan and several others). His wife, daughters and son often traveled to trade shows with him. I went to Michigan for a “Free Tanning Day” and the entire family was there on a Saturday putting free Wink-Ease on every customer. I wrote a column about Dennis for IST Magazine, because he was emphatic about never calling Wink-Ease and goggles ‘eyewear’. ‘It’s eye protection,’ he would say. ‘You can only call it eye protection. That’s a medical term and carries weight with your customer. We only offer eye protection at our salons.’ Dennis was emphatic about everything in his life. I’m sorry the industry has lost a man so full of life.”
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Brenda Fishbaugh – President, Eye Pro
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“Little did I know when I met Dennis McCormick and his family that it was the beginning of a life-long friendship I will always treasure. I chuckle now recalling fond memories; our conversations always left me with a smile on my face. On several occasions, he called me on the phone impersonating comedian, Roy D. Mercer. My first encounter with Dennis and his family was at one of the big tanning shows that was held back in the day in Nashville. Just a youngster, 20 years ago, they took me under their wings and taught me about the industry; I was in awe and knew I was learning from the best!”
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Melissa Heath – Account Manager, Four Seasons
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“The tanning industry has lost a highly successful entrepreneur and an individual who could lift the spirits of everyone in the room. We loved to have Dennis at Four Seasons events – joy, happiness and a never-ending repertoire of jokes came with him. We will be missing you, Dennis.”
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Ed Jerger – President, Four Seasons
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“Having known Dennis for 25 years, I always thought of him as a true gentleman – very kind and considerate. His attitude was always positive. We had many good times at industry functions and I will always remember him as a strong family man, as he showed his care and love for his wife Joyce and their children. Rest in peace, Dennis.”
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Susan Miller – President, PC Tan
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“The professional tanning industry has lost a true LEADER! Dennis was extremely knowledgeable and committed to our industry and its goals. A loyal friend to all who knew him, he will certainly be missed. My thoughts are with his family.”
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Max Recone – Owner, MR International
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