BLAKE, Dennis,
1929-2011
“Do not go gentle into that good night ...
Rage, rage against the dying of the light."
..... Dylan Thomas.
Dennis followed that creed, struggling against the cruelty of Alzheimer's before going gently and quietly into the good night on September 16th, 2011 at Casa Loma/Senior’s Village. He was 82.
Dennis enjoyed a fulfilling life with his beloved family and many good friends. He was a gentle man, quiet, and peace loving; however, he also possessed a wicked sense of humour which has obviously been passed on to his children and grandchildren.
Dennis had a passion for all kinds of music and belonged to a number of choirs in the valley. He loved to read, walk in nature (especially on the beach), golf, talk politics, and, most of all, be with his family, whom he adored. He was kind and patient, loved to garden, and had great compassion for animals. Den taught for many years in both Vancouver and in the Comox Valley School Districts. He was an inspired teacher who truly believed in the transformative power of literature.
Dennis leaves behind his loving wife and unwavering advocate, Linda, as well as a large, wonderful, loving family. Dennis has four terrific children, Deborah and her husband Darryl, Laura, David and his wife Christina, Colin and his wife Laura, and also Linda's son, Daniel, and family.
Dennis was also fortunate to have many talented and fun grandchildren: Kirsten, Melissa, Chelsea, Bryanna, Brittany, Matthew, Luke, Caleb, Nathan, Simon and Ethan. Dennis
was predeceased by his grandson, Jeremy.
Dennis also leaves 6 great grand children: Ryder, Kosten, Kyron, Ellie, Nolan and Jared.
He is survived by his sister, Gwen and her husband, and Dennis' best friend, Jack. Dennis spent many happy times with Jack and his three boys, John, Brian and Mike. Dennis also leaves his brother in law, David, and wife, Carol, as well as his niece and nephew, Emily and Andrew.
During his years of good health, Dennis enjoyed the company of many good friends and "the gang" had lots of happy times together. He played golf for many years with his buddies at Glacier Greens, although it must be stated that Dennis did often say that golf was a good walk, spoiled!
Many "Thank You"s from Linda are in order.
I would like to thank our family first and foremost. They are the best. I would like to thank Dr Matous for his care and unwavering support; also, Den's good friend, Tony, for always being there, and Louie for her help and kindness. I thank all of the staff at Casa Loma/Sr. Village for their care and patience for Dennis. They were all wonderful. I also want to thank my close friends Anne, Mary Ellen, Dan, Irene, Rae, Maggie, my newly discovered sister, Melissa, Nancy, Joe, and Jude for their unconditional love and support. There were many other great friends who helped along the way. It was a challenging, painful journey and I couldn't have done it alone. Alzheimer's is a hideous, unforgiving disease.
Dennis wanted no part of a fancy farewell. A family celebration of his life will be held in the near future. If you are moved to do so, a donation can be made in Dennis’ name to the Alzheimer's Society of British Columbia.
We will all miss you and will love you forever. We wish you peace and sweet dreams, Dennis.
Love, Linda