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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Janice, Barb has written beautiful words about your dad.
Both of you are in my thoughts.
Love you, Juliexxx
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