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Denis was born in the Muskoka/Parry Sound region to parents Arthur and Emily (nee Raymond). The eldest of eight boys, Denis had a great love for this region. While he did leave for several years to finish schooling in Toronto, his heart was in the northern shield country. He brought his Toronto bride to live with him on Lake Joseph close to his parents’ home.
Denis was a talented wood worker and had occasion to restore some of the region’s classic wooden boats. However, he became a jack-of-all-trades, turning his talented hands to many enterprises including home building, plumbing, electrical and mechanical work, and was employed for many years with Graham Hazel in Foote’s Bay and later at Lake Joseph Marina on the Joseph River outside of Minett. Denis was always busy and when not working at his regular employment he would be looking after local cottages. In addition, volunteerism was important to Denis; he believed in giving back to his community.
He served for many years on the Humphrey Township Committee of Adjustments, the Bracebridge Power Squadron (Commander Ret.), the Peninsula Lion’s Club (awarded a lifetime membership), the Little Lake Joe Association and his church’s Board of Directors. Through these organizations he became involved in many diverse groups including the CNIB Centre on Lake Joseph, The Camp for the Deaf, regional public speaking contests for local school children, and water quality testing on Little Lake Joseph. Denis was a storyteller. His tales were of his own family who moved to the region in the mid 1800’s from Quebec as well as other early settlers. His stories were always preceded by that twinkle in his eyes which was his trademark. His eyes would get that twinkle and he would launch into his story. He had a love of all things to do with boats, and a secondary interest in flying. While living in Toronto, he was in the Air Cadets and would bicycle from Parkdale to Malton Airport with his best friend John. He wanted to be a commercial pilot but was unable to pursue that vocation due to colour blindness. Much later in life he expressed an interest in marine biology and wished he had gone down that route. He owned every issue of National Geographic from 1946 through to 2008 and eventually read them all cover to cover; he was curious about the world, but perversely did not really want to leave home. He did eventually make it to the UK a few times, to South Africa and some exploring in Ontario all with family. Denis passed away at Belvedere Heights Home for the Aged in Parry Sound with his family at his side. He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Elizabeth (Betty), three children Linda, Karen (Brown) and Paul. He was called Poppa by grandchildren Amy, Courtney and Melissa. Proud great grandfather of Willow, Kai, Zoe and Keira. Remembered by three of his brothers Brian, Vernon and Philip and their families. Denis is deeply missed by family and friends but we know his spirit is free to soar. A celebration of his life will be held at his home at a date in June 2024.
Sunday November 26th 2023
Death notice for the town of: Parry Sound, Province: Ontario
death notice Denis Jean-Marie Sunday November 26th 2023
obituaries notice Denis Jean-Marie Sunday November 26th 2023
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Denis Jean-Marie Sunday November 26th 2023 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
