Dennis Blake

Dennis passed away suddenly at his home in Acton. He will be dearly missed by his mother Margaret (Peggy), brother Noel (Ann) and children Nicole and Rhys, sister Carole Wenstrup (John) and children Patrick and Kaileigh. He was predeceased by his father Charles, and will be remembered by his extended family and friends in Canada, Ireland, Scotland and the United States.

Dennis was a teacher for the Halton District School Board, and spent his career at two schools, most recently at Post’s Corners Public School in Oakville, and previously at Stewarttown Middle School. Dennis thoroughly loved teaching, and took every opportunity to spark and develop a child’s mind. He was known for running school art clubs, coaching cross country and making graduation events a lifetime memory. One of his trademarks was to always wear a neck tie to school, whether it matched or not!

Dennis was also a gifted graphic artist (diploma from Sheridan College - Oakville) and an ongoing student of history (BA,MA -Wilfred Laurier University) before attending Teacher’s College at the University of Western Ontario. While attending college/university he began to supply editorial cartoons to the Acton Free Press. Through his collection of old post cards and letters, he also developed and presented on occasion a history of Acton. Perhaps Dennis’ most cherished hobby was his interest and ownership of various classic cars over his life, and the friendships and camaraderie that he developed from that pursuit.

Friends will be received at the MacKinnon Family Funeral Home, 55 Mill Street East, on Friday, February 26, 2016 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. A Vigil Prayer for Dennis will take place at 8:45 p.m. A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, February 27, 2016 at 11:30 a.m. St. Joseph Patron of Canada Parish, 64 Church Street, Acton. A reception will be held at the Acton Legion, 15 Wright Street, Acton following the Mass. On-Line condolences may be left at www.mackinnonfamilyfuneralhome.com

Dennis was a strong supporter of the Canadian Cancer Society and remembrances made in his name would be appreciated by the family.