Browse the obituary of residing in the province of Ontario for funeral details
Costco’s stock took a nosedive on March 23, 2025, upon hearing of the loss of one of its most loyal customers, Dennis Stephen Hladysh. Senior executives braced for the financial hit, knowing the aisles just wouldn’t be the same without him.
Dennis left this world far too soon thanks to pancreatic cancer—something he’d surely call “a real pain in the pancreas.” His dreams of a dazzling future with his new love, Gloria, were cruelly dashed. A devilled egg connoisseur, pierogi enthusiast (proudly Ukrainian) and maker of a mean gin and tonic was also renowned for his legendary pool parties, flamboyant shirts, which never failed to draw 4-year-olds and middle-aged men into conversation, and terrible dad jokes which will echo on. He can likely be found forwarding ‘Pickles’, his favourite cartoon strip about a retired couple in their seventies, (check your spam folder).
His varied and storied career as a marketing and communications executive spanned several industries including agriculture, broadcasting, food and real estate.
He was never one for sentiment or religiosity or to call attention to his actions of love. He was a spiritualist believing in the positive forces of the universe, which he credits for bringing his last love and soulmate, Gloria, into his life at the tender age of 72.
He disdained ostentatious displays of authority and wealth. His one exception was his shameless promotion for the Shriners. Dennis was a proud Freemason and Shriner for over 42 years. In addition, he was an active Noble in the Shriners for 36 years and was past president of the Oakville Shrine Club. He spent decades raising money for life changing surgeries ‘for the kids’, while simultaneously refusing to take himself too seriously. He believed in decency, authenticity, and that no one should trust a man in a suit unless he was wearing a fez.
Dennis’ curiosity will finally be satisfied as he embarks on the biggest adventure of his life, entering the great unknown, with kernels of corn in his pockets for a truly explosive exit. He is predeceased by his cherished wife Barbara (Evans) of 47 years. He leaves behind his loving wife and soulmate, Gloria; his brother, Boe (Inge); his children, David (Laura) and Kathryn (Andrew); and his grandkids, George (9) and Mary (6), who will forever miss their larger-than-life grandpa…
Respecting Dennis’ wish, a private cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life, including a Masonic Service, will be held at SMITH’S FUNERAL HOME, 1167 Guelph Line (one stop light north of QEW), Burlington (905-632-3333), on Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 1-2 p.m. Reception to follow.
In Dennis’ honor, we leave you with his signature farewell: “If I don’t see you through the week, I’ll see you through the window.”
In lieu of flowers, and if desired, please give generously to the Shriners Children’s Hospital in memory of Dennis.
Please visit www.smithsfh.com to sign the online book of condolences.
Sunday March 23rd 2025
Death notice for the town of: , Province: Ontario
death notice Dennis Stephen Hladysh Sunday March 23rd 2025
obituaries notice Dennis Stephen Hladysh Sunday March 23rd 2025
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Dennis Stephen Hladysh Sunday March 23rd 2025 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
