My husband, Ron, died Feb 21, 2013 at the age of 74, of complications associated with dementia. Life was rough at both ends. Born in Prelate, Saskatchewan, he started out with a Father at war, and a family of Mom and 4 kids struggling to make ends meet. And during his last years, he fought against the cruel ravages of dementia.
But it’s the many wonderful years in between that characterize the man he was, the man that I loved. The man that was adored by his daughter Janice (“he’s my hero”); loved by his grandchildren Michelle and Lukas; and brothers Gerald and Keith; (predeceased by mother Edna, & sister Nadine). And equally loved by the large and boisterous Cornelson clan to which he was granted honorary member status, much to his delight. And judging by comments, he has also been loved by a host of life-long friends and colleagues. For a lifetime, he kept us all laughing with his wry observations on life and human nature. The many years of his prime were rich indeed. He enjoyed 37 years as a police officer, initially in Calgary and then West Vancouver…..the kind of officer that could give you a ticket and send you away smiling. The stories are numerous and legendary. Due to my airline career, Ron and I travelled the globe extensively, earning him the nickname of Capt. Freebie. And our travels were so enriched by Ron’s ability to strike a chord with everyone he met, regardless of background, nationality or language. Children and dogs were his specialty. We were fortunate to have wonderful children in our lives….daughter Janice, his pride and joy throughout the years. Plus two grandchildren, two nieces, and two nephews whom we cherish and who kept us young at heart. We were blessed with good health until dementia struck. And we loved each other for over 35 years. So Ron would have heartily agreed that, in the things that mattered most, he had a wonderful life. He left me with a wealth of memories. I let him go gratefully because it ends his pain, but I will miss him terribly.
Many thanks to the staff at Kiwanis Pavilion who cared for Ron these past few months and saw through his torment to connect with the “real” him. Those who were special angels…you know who you are. In lieu of flowers, donations would be welcome to the Alzheimer Society of BC or the Kiwanis Pavilion.
A celebratory gathering and wake will be held where stories will be told, glasses raised, and a wonderful guy honored.
Lovingly, Barb Denney
MEMORIAL GATHERING AND WAKE
A memorial gathering & wake is now planned for Thursday, April 11th at the McCall’s Reception Centre beginning at 1:30 pm. McCall’s is located in downtown Victoria at the corner of Vancouver & Johnson St, with their large parking lot right across from the Johnson St. entrance.
Janice & I have been very touched by the many condolences & reminiscences both on the website & via cards & emails. We look forward to seeing any of you who can join us to hear some of those “legendary” stories & to give Ron the kind of send-off he would want to attend!
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
-
Lance and Sue Marchand
-
Skip and Arlene Beatty Dear Barb and family.
We are so sorry to hear about Ron’s passing. We were not aware of it until just yesterday (May 24th)
Ron was most definately one of a kind. I could truly write a book about him and his antics, his humour and his dedication as a Police Officer. It was an honour to know him for over forty years and a pleasure to work with him. Arlene also has fond memories and Ron will be missed. Keeping you in our thoughts and Prayers.
Arlene and Skip Beatty
-
Vic Wiebe Please accept my condolences on Ron’s passing. He was a class guy all the years I knew him. Memories are Golden. RIP Ron.:; Vic
-
Cindy Lazaruk Although I did not know the real Ron, I can see that you and had a wonderful life together. He sounded like a great guy. My deepest sympathies for the loss of a real friend and love.
Cindy
-
Dave Touhey RIP
-
Ed and Maggie Pearce Dear Barb, Janice and family,
We were so sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. Like Todd Ron hired me in 1990 also. Ron was a great boss to work for and always had a joke or some story to tell you that made you laugh. I use to enjoy my coffee or beer with Ron and Barb in Qualicum Beach where I was there visiting family. I have fond memories of Ron standing at the Sgt door rubbing his back on the door frame while talking to me and I used to ask him all the time if he had fleas or something! He said he didn’t. One Halloween I located a school play type coffin so I placed it outside his door and said it was a gift for Sgt Denney. I returned to work 4 days later to find my locker removed from the change room and my locker was replaced with the coffin and note saying it was a gift from Sgt Denney. I then had to explain to my Sgt, who was Bob Willock why I was not dressed and had no gear. Of course I got in trouble until i figured out Bob was in on the joke. That was a day with Ron, laughter, support and good old stories. Will miss Ron but the memories and legends live on.
Ed Pearce
-
Mark Darling Dear Barb, Janice and Family
Please accept my sincere condolences. I was saddened with the passing of Ron. During my tenure at WVPD I cannot think of anyone who made my time there more enjoyable. Ron was always known for his quick wit and many funny stories. He will be sadly missed and I know he is now in a better place.
Best wishes to you all in this most difficult of times.Mark Darling
-
Todd Bryant Dear Barb, Janice and Family,
I was very sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. He hired me in 1990 and was a positive influence on my first few years in policing. I have very fond memories of a kind caring and funny man. I still have an old faded CPIC message he sent my father on the day he hired me.
My sincere condolences,
Todd Bryant
-
Paul Sinclair Dear Barb & Family;
I am very sorry to hear of your loss with Ron’s passing but glad that he did not have to suffer any further. The five years I worked with Ron at the West Van PD (81-86) flew by and I will always be grateful to my forever Sgt., Ron Denney. Ron had a great sense of humour and we worked together on a few, “capers,” even though I was the Rookie member of his entourage and sometimes called the, “Clone.” Ron was tough, very straight but compassionate and always brought common sense to every situation. I have great respect for Ron. One of our platoon adventures to Boyer Island resulted in Ron being awarded the, “Ron Dennney Cliff Diving Championship,” trophy, following Ron’s unfortunate tumble from the railing and cliff face there. Ron alerted us to his plight by calling out my name, knowing I was the most likely to be in a capable and conscious state…common sense. Ron was always supportive and defended me against the unwarranted attacks of many annoyed or disciplined civilians and a few of the WVPD management…all with great humour. I learned a great deal from Ron. Ron had a nickname for everyone, some more humorous than others! I spent the following 25 years working with Delta PD, prior to my retirement in 2011 but always had great memories of my time with Ron. My Sgt. Denney is loved, will be missed by so many but is respected forever by all.
Love to you and your family,
Paul Sinclair
-
Cheryl Young Barb and Janice,
I am sorry to learn of Ron’s passing but know he would have so badly not wanted the life he was living in the end. It is not easy to lose someone you love so much, but what a blessing he is in a better place.Barb I so used to love your and Ron’s spontanious visits with me on my deck as you were in the hood. Ron was always such a delight,a twinkle in his (good )eye. I will be there at the service with a big hug and will look forward to his celebration of life with you both.
xoxo
Cheryl
By the way Jan, how lucky we both were to have such great Dads who loved us so much, hey?
-
Peter & Oriel Norman Dear Barb,Janice & Family .
Please accept our condolences on Ron,s passing.
Your tribute so true brought back many fond memories for me, Ron was one of the first members I worked with at WVPD and taught me that police work could be done a lot easier with a bit of humor .
Thank,s old mate . bet your making them laugh up there.like you did down here .
Love to all Peter /Oriel Norman
-
Mike and Marilyn Barb, Janice and Family,
What can we say that has not already been said, other than how much we will miss our dear friend Ron. Our mutual Family Doctor referred to Barb as “Saint Barbara” for all that she did for Ron over these past years with such love and devotion.
We were always amazed at her patience and gentleness with Ron trying to make his life with Dementia as normal and comfortable as possible.
He was also blessed to have had such a wonderful caring daughter, sister-in-law and brother-in-law.
We all miss him at our retirees group lunches here on the Island but will never forget him.
We love you both,
Mike and Marilyn
-
Bob Fontaine I was so saddened to hear of Ron’s passing. This must be so hard on all of you, especially you Barb and Janice. I will always remember the fun loving Ron Denney and cherish those times we all shared. Ron was one of those guys that once you met him you always remembered him, not too many people you can say that about in a good way. Unfortunately I will be travelling with my son for his baseball during the celebration of Ron’s life so will not be able to attend but believe me my thoughts are with you.
Bob
-
Ed Tait My all-time favorite Brother-in-Law, Sergeant Ron Denney has passed…..
He was a major influencer in my life and I am influenced by his passing….
Life-ending experiences oftentimes offer us a look at our own lives and an opportunity for a reassessment of what is in-fact important and what is at least significantly less important than family and how we spend the time we have…..
Ron did very much fight the good fight…for the longest time he refused to give the disease its due, to let the disease beat him….and yet in the end, regardless all his efforts and all of Barb’s super-human efforts, Dementia did beat him, and at last it has finally taken him.
There is absolutely no doubt that Ron is in a better place….he has to be, given the place the disease left to him here, particularly in the end days, Ron was not at all in a good place….or certainly a place Ron would have wanted to be.
Ron was such a strong personality, larger than life, giving you his last dime without question and yes, the shirt….helpful, understanding, of me especially…
He was in-fact, my personal counselor as I tried to secure permission to enter the Cornelson family….and once I was finally admitted, with his able assistance; we battled, with each other, in that special way only real friends are able, for the approval of Dar and Barb’s Mother, Sunny….less so for Ted, Dar and Barb’s Father, (in the Cornelson Family the woman rule….) we never really knew who won, I imagine we both did, given we did both very much love Sunny’s daughters.
I will miss him terribly, Ron was my compatriot, we agreed on a lot of the ‘important stuff’…..Brothers-in-Law forever, eh…?!
He certainly was always the alpha among us; Sergeant Ron Denney was a policeman’s policeman, the type of policemen we all remember from our earlier years; the type we wished our policemen were today. Sergeant Denney was a cop who believed he was there to Protect and Serve, not necessarily to be protecting and serving by being hidden in the bushes seeking seat-belt infractions.
What I know, is that I owe Ron much, that I always will owe him much and God Damn it…..I miss him…!
Until we meet again my friend…..
-
Shirley & Dave Nelist Barb, You and Ron were the best neighbours we could ask for. When we moved onto the street you welcomed us with open arms – kids and dogs included. Our special moments were shared with you and will be remembered by all of us. Ron was thrilled to be there with Clinton for his grad photos. The best part of Dave’s lawncuts was sharing a beer with Ron after. Ron will always be a part of our best memories. Our thoughts are with you. Love Dave, Shirley, Clinton and Carly
-
Bernie Hutchcroft Barb and Janice Denney
Please accept my condolences on Ron’s passing.It was great socialling with you and the rest of the “old farts” when we all moved to the island.
Now with Ron’s passing and Aggie in 2011,I’m sure they are still bugging one another where ever they are.
When you love someone,you never get over it and I’m sure your memories will sustain you.
See you at the memorial.
Bernie
-
Larry Horrocks I am Sadden that we have lost another great man,when Ron passed away..The Love and Care he received was Second to none and would make any man Proud on his last days..His time had come to move to a happier place for which he awaits to Reunite and Dance the night away..For now, the many memories of special times and places will fill the mind..But know full well that Two Special Ladies have another Angel watching over them..(and the grandchildren)…His strength will be yours to Seize, it will keep you Strong..For there will be days you need it Janice and Barb…
I Tip My Glass to You RON
LARRY
-
Brian and Mary Evoy Barb you are so fortunate to have had such a great and loving partner, father and grandparent. Ron may be gone but he will never be forgotten.
All our love.
Brian and Mary.
-
Hal and Adele Jenkins Barb,
We are so sad to hear of Ron’s passing. You described him perfectly in your tribute, he was truly a wonderful guy, full of fun, a great friend, someone who’s very presence would bring a smile to anyone’s face and we will always remember him this way. Everyone will agree that we were all fortunate indeed to have known him and that he was also very fortunate indeed to have had you by his side.
Our sincere condolences to you, Janis and family.
Hal and Del.
-
Colin Willock Very sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. While growing up, I remember looking forward to the both of you ( and Janice when I was a bit older ) coming to visit the folks in Richmond. He was quick with a joke and always wore a smile. The two of you were made for each other. He will be sorely missed.
-
Frances and John Derry Dear Barb:
As your neighbours, we knew Ron for only a few brief months and much admired your determination to see his final days lived in steadfast companionship and devotion.
Sincerely,
Fran and John
-
BrianHalford Hello Mrs Denny and family Im sorry to hear of the passing of your husband.Its been years since ive seen Mr Denny but I remember him well from my youth when he was a Calgary police man.He was just a nice man always good to us kids and we enjoyed being around him when he would come to midnapore.
-
Elaine (Jer's Mom) and Red Boudreault Dear Barb,
We are so sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. We first met Ron at Ed’s Christmas dinner many years ago, and went away thinking what a nice man. We both thought what a genuine fellow and appreciated his sense of humour as he did Red’s and that feeling grew with a few more dinners down the road.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time. He is remembered in high esteem.
-
Angela and Chris Brodkorb Dear Barb and family,
We did not know your wonderful husband but were saddened to hear of his passing. We send you our sincerest condolences.
-
George & Ruth Phillipson Dear Barb, Janice and family
There is little we can add to the comments of everyone else other than to add our own sincere condolences. You have captured some wonderful memories of a great guy, cherish those memories and keep them alive.
Sincerely
George & Ruth Phillipson
-
rick and cary burnett Dear Barb,
I was fortunate to be able to know and work with Ron at WVPD. He had a great attitude and was funny 99% of the time. However when circumstances required it he could be very serious. Ron was of the opinion that work did not always have to be a drudge.
A memory that I will never forget was our trip to Boyer Is. and Ron falling to the beach. I woke up to hear Ron calling for Paul Sinclair, our rookie. We found Ron on the beach and got him up from the beach. I asker Ron why he was calling for Sinclair and he said “I’m his sergeant, he’s supposed to listen to me.”
Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
-
Julie Scott Janice, Barb has written beautiful words about your dad.
Both of you are in my thoughts.
Love you, Juliexxx
-
Colleen Dardis To my Dear Aunti Barb and Janice my BFF., Michelle and Lukas
As I begin to send you this condolence I sit here and giggle flooded with all the childhood memories of Janice and I tormenting Uncle Ron with all our shinanigans he should of locked us up and thrown away the key!
He really was beloved man and held in high regard and special place in my heart.
Not, how did he die, but how did he live?
Not, what did he gain, but what did he give?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of his birth.
Nor what was his church, nor what was his creed?
But had he befriended those really in need?
Was he ever ready, with words of good cheer,
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
Not what did the sketch in the newspaper say,
But how many were sorry when he passed away?Hugs
Colleen and Family
-
Kathy Bigelow Dear Janice, Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I know you will cherish all the wonderful memories that you have
With much love,
Bigelow
xxoo
-
Michael Stuart David Thanks Ron for a lot of things. As your only Son-In-Law, and a Firefighter, we exchanged a lot of banter on what occupation was better. You never proved to me a Police Officer was as popular as a Firefighter, but I DID know, you were one hell of a good Cop. You loved Michelle and Luke with all your heart and they will miss you dearly. Thankfully you’re at peace from a terrible disease. I know I don’t have to ask, because I know you will, but while your up there at the big donut shop in the sky, keep your eye on the Lukester and Michelle for me.
Rest in peace Ron.
Mike
-
Bernard Murphy Ron was always a gentleman and kind and generous. He was an easy going friendly man who liked to see the good in everyone. My heartfelt condolences go to his family and friends. We all miss him but i know his family feel it very deeply. I am sure everyone is happy knowing he is up with his beloved ones on the other side, free and joyous…
-
Ed and Gloria Dear Barb, Janice and family,
What a wonderful tribute, Barb – Ron was so lucky to have a wife like you! We will remember him as one of the “nice guys”; always quick with a joke and a smile for everyone. He will certainly be missed.
Our sincere sympathy to you all.
Love, Ed and Gloria
-
Marian & Paul von Wittgenstein Our sincere condolences to all the family. Ron was a prime factor in why we refer to “The good old days”. When he came into the court registry he brightened our days. We think of him often.
-
Jack St Mars Thirty and a bit years ago I had the pleasure of living next door to Ron & Barb on Montroyal Blvd. in North Vancouver for a short while. Seeing the photo of Ron in the notice in the paper keenly brought back my memories of his character in the conversations that we shared – warm, engaging, the kind of person you knew could become a good friend – these are what I remember. My parents (both deceased) who lived in my house for a short while, I remember got to know Ron & Barb and on many occasions would mention to me how much they enjoyed their conversations with them.
Barb, please accept my condolences – very sorry to hear of Ron’s passing.Jack St. Mars (Jr.)
-
Les & Judy Dear Barb,Janice & family,
Our sincere regrets on Ron’s passing. He will always be remembered so fondly by those who were lucky enough to know him. He had a fantastic sense of humour, and made life pleasant to be around him. He really loved people, and brought out the best in them. Barb, you made Ron an even more special person. He needed you, and you were there always.
Sincere sympathy-Les & Judy
-
Glenda Kemp My condolences to you and all your family at this difficult time.
Ron was a great man, always full of fun and laughter. He had a very caring heart and was well liked by all. He will be missed.
-
Frank & Sandra Aikenhead Barb, Janice & family
Your tribute to about Ron was a perfect description of a good man and a great colleague. You captured the essence of Ron perfectly. We will alway remember the fun social events where Ron always seemed to be the life of the party.
At work Ron could find the humorous side of just about any type of situation and expressed it as only he could do, and he had that special gift of diffusing situations and leaving most people he dealt with more positive feelings about the police than they started with.
Our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Frank and Sandra Aikenhead
-
John Looye Barb, so sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. He was a good partner and fellow police officer. Hope we will be back in Canada for the farwell wake. John & LeeAnna
-
Brian Cornelson Cousin Barb!
You captured Ron in your tribute as only a loving and lifelong partner could. His wry comments (or should that be ‘rye’ comments? Gotcha, Ron!) included zingers that stung but were never unkind and one-liners that should have been written down for posterity. You were a great team and Ron will always be part of you–and of all of us who are so fortunate to have known him.
Love,
Brian
-
Bev & Jim Wilson Our thoughts are with you at this sad time Barb.
Ron was a great cousin,in my younger days my friend & I used to come & stay with my Aunt & Ron In Calgary, we polished his police boots to help make him that handsome policeman.
Sure glad Jim & I did get out to BC a few years ago as to see you.
-
Janis Dear Barb, Janice and family
I am so deeply sorry to hear of Ron’s passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
I worked with Ron for many years at W.V.P.D. and I remember him with much love, adoration and endless laughter. Ron was an inspiration to all of us and I will carry memories of him in my heart for ever.
Take care,Janis Jean ( MacLean)
-
Rebecca Heon Dearest Barb and Janice,
Ron was one of my most favorite people on earth. A gentle and fun-loving guy with a heart of gold and that spectacular sense of humor!! I fondly remember him joking and kibitzing at the Cornelson reunions and other family events. Such a cheeky devil! Ron and Barb: a beautiful couple; Dan and I aspire to have a marriage like yours. Janice, such a strong, caring, phenomenal daughter and mother. Daddy’s pride and joy!! While I am saddened that Ron is no longer with us, I am sure he is at peace now that he has been freed from that horrible disease. Dan, Amanda and Adam join me in sending love and the hugest of hugs to you.
Rebecca xo
-
IC Barb: I’ve never forgotten Ron. His humor, wit, patience and positive outlook made coming to work a joy (and inspiring).
Ian
-
Carol Daleo Dear Barb and Family,
The words you chose in your tribute above have touched my heart. I always adored both you and Ron – you were such a great couple and there was always so much laughter between you. Ron was the epitomy of a man who lived life in the moment. He was a true treasure to work with, such a kind man. I am sorry for your loss. The “legendary” stories will live on!
Hugs from Carol
-
Cindy Bouchard I’m so sorry for your loss, Barb. There are no words… take care of YOU. Sending love, Cindy
-
TK Uncle Ron hired me in 1992 at the WVPD, words can not describe the sadness I feel to hear of his passing. He was one of the guys who made it a joy to come to work.
-
Deborah Silk Barb, Janice and Family:
My most sincere condolences. Ron was one of my personal favourites at WVPD. He was on my interview panel when I interviewed and gave me a wonderful first impression of a department that I came to love. Thinking of you.
-
Don and Reet Herder Dear Barb and family,
We are so saddened to hear about Ron’s passing and want to send you our deepest condolences, at this time, and to let you know that our thoughts are with you.
Ron was a most delightful man to know and be with, during my four years with him in the West Vancouver PD. Whether on or off the job, his sense of humour kept everyone around him joyful and happy and he was just a super great guy to be around.
Although we haven’t seen him for many years, we have such wonderful memories of the person he was and it is sad to hear that alzheimer’s took it’s toll…
May God be with all of you and we will remember Ron with great respect and fondness.
Don and Reet Herder
Barb and Family,
This is a very late message as I only came across this while thinking of my fellow colleagues from West Vancouver police. Your description of Ron was so perfect. The condolences I have read have brought me back so many other great memories of Ron. He was truly a special man that is fondly remembered by so many people. It has been over a year since his passing and hopefully things have got better. Ron hired me in 1991 after I had trained there for a short time doing my block 2. I was with the tribal police at the time and had applied to the WV police before I left after my block 2. I remember when Ron called me to offer me the job. I had been away from policing for a few months as there were no jobs in tribal police. I was back into my old life in Vernon and not sure I wanted to move down to the coast. I was dragging my feet and Ron finally called me and said so eloquently “Listen Marchand, Doing you want the $%&%$& job or not?” He got me off my butt and into a career I have enjoyed since then. He was a special man and will be missed. My condolences to you and your family.
Lance Marchand