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
48 Responses
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
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.
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)
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
Barb: I’ve never forgotten Ron. His humor, wit, patience and positive outlook made coming to work a joy (and inspiring).
Ian
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
I’m so sorry for your loss, Barb. There are no words… take care of YOU. Sending love, Cindy
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.
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.
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