He spent most of his life working in the sawmill industry, residing in various locations across British Columbia. In recent years, he lived with his daughter and her family in Comox.
Dennis is survived by his four children and their families: Kelly, Derril, and Jaxon Trakalo; Jacob, Jackie, Bailey, and Sydney Schmidt; Debra, Lee, Adam, and Sarah McKillican; and Mikel, Kelly, Dane, and Kobyn Schmidt. He was preceded in death by his wife, Vickie-Lynn Schmidt.
Dennis had a passion for pitching fastball, watching baseball (especially the Toronto Blue Jays), and spending time in nature and living near water. His family remembers him taking them camping and teaching them to "fish for squirrels." He was well-read and knowledgeable across various subjects. A lifelong learner, his favorite channel was the Knowledge Network. He loved his dog, Bandit and he will be remembered for ping pong, playing 99, being the Wizard, his jellybean jar, his sense of humor, and the time he was able to spend with his grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society, an organization he supported.
May he rest in peace.
