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
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
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
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…
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
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.
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.)
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
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.
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
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