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 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
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
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
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
RIP
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
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
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