Today is Denise’s Birthday and we look to heaven and say our words.
Although I never got to know Denise’s children I do know without a doubt that she loved them with all her heart.  It is never easy to be a single parent at the best of times and becomes very difficult when judgement comes instead of support and understanding. She did the best she could with the tools she had and in my opinion she was an awesome Mother.  I admire her for all she achieved and the pain she endured without malice.
I know that she is watching from Heaven and I pray I don’t disappoint her.  Thank you Denise for being part of my life and all the that you gave me.  Till we meet again. 
Dorothy

Thank you for the armful of hugs you sent my way, Deirdre and Raymond-they are much needed and appreciated right now.
Tomorrow is Denise's Birthday, and her family will reach out to each other, to celebrate her life.
You had such a winning smile, Denise.
Love you forever.

Des, this is a picture of you and Denise from February, 2019 when we all went out to the Keg in Langley.  We were looking forward to going to Victoria and meeting up and getting to know Denise a little more, but COVID happened.  

We are thinking of you as you are going through this very difficult time and sending an armful of hugs to you!

Rest In Peace Denise



We're a week away from what would have been Denise's Birthday. Last year, on December 20th, we celebrated with a Christmas Lunch at the Hotel Grand Pacific. This year, because Denise is gone and Covid is here, what we had hoped would become a Christmas tradition will not be repeated.
In Denise's memory, I've retrieved the box marked "Christmas Stuff" from the storage room, and once again marveled at the many  distinctive and classical heirloom treasures I unwrapped. I particularly like the small ceramic Christmas tree, whose two dozen tiny lights of many colours are illuminated from within by a 40 watt bulb.
Christmas was Denise's most cherished time of year (Halloween came a close second), and she always made sure that visiting friends and relatives were warmly welcomed, and fed with scrumptious seasonal delicacies. Her face would radiantly glow with delight as her children opened their unique gifts, which their  Mom had carefully researched and chosen over many weeks.
And speaking of Halloween...
I previously wrote that, on the night after Denise's passing, I imagined that I heard her banging on our bedroom window. I searched the horizon, and then, some distance to my right, I heard the continuous banging sound (and observed the spectacular pyrotechnics) of Halloween fireworks, exploding in the darkening sky.
So Denise had not really been banging on the bedroom window, wishing to be allowed inside. And yet...
Heather suggested that her Mom might have somehow mischievously influenced the Halloween revellers to explode the fireworks, just at the very time when she observed that they'd have a profound effect on me.
So, Lief Denise, you weren't really outside on that cold evening, but were still indirectly and humorously communicating with me. Your aura is everywhere, inside this cozy condo, especially in your favourite armchair, where  Hank and Tigger frequently sleep together.
Long ago, Elvis sang "Blue Christmas".
This year, it's my turn.
Love you, Denise.
xoxo.

This was 5 years ago at our work get together for my retirement 
I have white hair
Annie is redhead 
The three of us had some good laughs over the years .

One week ago, Heather and I collected Denise's Ashes from First Memorial Funeral Home. We both closely hugged the Urn , as it contains all that remains of Denise's physical essence. Heather advised me to drive carefully and slowly: it wouldn't have mattered if a fender-bender had caused the Mazda 3's two occupants to be bashed around a bit; of prime concern was that our precious cargo should remain undamaged.
Denise's Urn is presently situated atop the tall sitting-room cabinet-one of the many carefully-chosen and tasteful pieces of furniture and accessories that she painstakingly decorated our home with. This temporary resting place is definitely to her liking, as her spirit lingers here in the condo she loved, as surely as it resides in the homes of her beloved children, family and friends. At a fitting moment, Denise's Ashes will be dispersed by Heather, Brian and Stephen, to forever become part of the earth and the ocean, to always remain an integral segment of our planet's diverse elements.
Denise left us on the day before Halloween-a holiday which has been irrevocably altered by the presence of Covid-19, but which now bears the added stigma of reminding us of Denise's passing.
That evening, distressed and weary, I retired to rest, closing the curtains against the blustery winds, which were agitating the leafless trees outside.
After some moments I heard a repetitive banging sound, which seemed to be coming from just outside the bedroom window. Just as I went to investigate, the banging noise stopped. This procedure was repeated again, causing me to exclaim: "Come inside, Denise-you belong in here! You don't have to languish outside, on this cold night!"
For a third time the banging sound resumed, but this time, when I moved the curtain aside, the noise continued. I then realized that the sound wasn't coming from just outside the window, but from a little distance away.
Incidentally, this accompanying photo exemplifies Denise's caring, generous nature.  

I became a friend with Denise when we met in Victoria. She was 
a great friend and walking partner, we explored many different beaches, trails, lunch spots and hidden treasures on the island. Of course we talked non stop and solved many of the worlds problems along the way.
I will remember her with joy when I return to the paths we travelled.


I am so sorry for the sudden loss of Denise. I was looking forward to her meeting my newborn son Tadhg this summer when her and my dad came to visit, but alas, Covid happened. When I became pregnant she was a wealth of help with any question I asked. She always loved being a mum. I think it was her favourite thing in her life. I am so sorry for her mother Andrea, sister Annie, her sons Brian and Stephen and daughter Heather, and my dad. 

Love to you Denise,
Dympna, Dave, and Tadhg 

It is said that God only takes the very best.
He knew of your hardships and all the struggles you had and knew that there would be many more, so to spare you of the pain and heart break he took you home to be safe with him.
I thought of you with love today,
But that is nothing new
I thought about you yesterday
And days before that too.
I think of you in silence,
I often speak your name
Now all I have is memories,
With which we'll never part 
God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart.  Rest in Peace Denise, we'll meet again.

Dear Lief Denise,
I've just been looking over emails we exchanged: you certainly had a   gift for conjuring up vivid images. This is why, after you'd described to some friends what life was like growing up on a tobacco farm, one of them (a CBC announcer) asked if you'd like to repeat the story on a radio show. Your natural shyness made you decline this offer, which is a pity, otherwise we'd have an account of an important part of your childhood preserved in the CBC archives. 
Most people read bedtime stories to their children, but you went a step further: you invented your own tales. These are still remembered, including an unusual one about dust-bunnies, which during the night became quite animated.
                Denise, I'm sure your grandchild, the charismatic and super-smart Santana, would have loved to hear your lively retelling of those same stories. When we stayed with Natalie and Stephen in July, Santana greatly enjoyed your company: you laughed together on the park swings, caught plastic fishes with tiny rods, then relaxed together on the sofa, watching Boss Baby. Months later, when she learned that you were gravely ill, she said exactly what we were all thinking: "That isn't fair!"
At Thanksgiving, we all gathered again in Victoria, where we enjoyed a sumptuous meal, truly thankful we were all together. In October everyone (including your sister Annie) returned to support you, as your time was short.
In the palliative care unit of Royal Jubilee Hospital, in spite of COVID, we were allowed to spend long hours with you. I know you were aware of our presence, as we held your hand and talked to you and sang you songs. At 10:30 a.m., in the 10th month of 2020, on the 30th day, you quietly left us. You didn't suffer a prolonged illness, which was the one true blessing of that devastating day.
Your stunning smile warmed our hearts. 
It wasn't fair you left so soon, my Lief.
Victoria is empty without you. 
You will always be missed.
Your Loving Husband, Des.

Dearest Denise, 
You were so happy when you moved to Victoria, three years ago.  Your initial motivation for moving to Victoria was to be close to Heather, to assist her with her health issues. You both achieved a special closeness during that time, and it was inspiring to see how you devoted yourself completely to her well-being-as, indeed, you have always made the care of all your children your top priority. In return, when you yourself became ill, Heather became totally committed to your personal care, dispensing healthy supplements and uplifting succor in equal measure.
You fell completely in love, my Flemish Lief, with the third floor condo that you made our home. It has a stunning view  overlooking the Gorge waterway, with Victoria Harbor and Mount Baker in the distance. With your impeccable good taste, you turned the apartment into a comfortable, elegant home, using many of the mementoes brought from your children's childhood home in Lambeth. You befriended Joanne, the mother of Brian's friend Torren, with whom you established an enduring fast friendship. You both explored the beautiful walkways, parks and beaches in the area.
Denise, when you became ill, we all shared our dismay and shock with you. You lamented that you wouldn't live long enough to hold Natalie and Stephen's baby boy, expected next year, or to see any of Grace and Brian's children. We all told you that you will always be with us, that your grandchildren will be part of your enduring legacy. This is why I am addressing this obituary directly to you, as if you were actually still here, because you are.
                  Feeling greatly fatigued in July, and having concerns about your long-term health, you decided to drive with me to 
visit Brian and Stephen, and their families. You loved the improvements being  made to Grace and Brian's new house, where we passed some pleasant days. ( In true Belgian fashion, you  wanted to assist in some way, so one afternoon we weeded.) More to come.   

So sorry for your loss, very surprised, that she passed so quickly.  Alan and I were very she and her husband came to our wedding, also the whole family, was so happy to see each other, also very happy kept in touch after that, may she rest in Peace, she was a great person, hugs to you all!

I lost my Beloved 13 days ago, and now, on Remembrance Day, I join  with so many who knew and loved her in cherishing her memory. Denise never truly appreciated how well liked and loved she was, and I grieve that she's not here to witness the outpouring of true  love and genuine affection everyone has expressed towards her.
          What I first noticed about Denise was how  caring and warm she was towards her three children: Stephen, Heather and Brian. Her kindness extended to me as well: she made me abandon polyester pants, and showered me with clothes more suited to the 21st Century. In quick succession she made me four warm winter jackets, thanks to her mastery of sewing. 
Her culinary skills, as already noted, were legendary. Her quirky sense of humour made her downplay her cooking prowess: she laughed that women are not automatically good cooks, that all women  are not born with cooking genes. However, the facts spoke for themselves: she was a whiz kid in the kitchen, producing masterpieces of cuisine from casually assembled ingredients.
   Denise's family, in Canada and Belgium, always welcome me warmly and kindly into their homes. Likewise, when we stayed with my family in Canada, Ireland and the U.S., we were always treated with  utmost hospitality.
Denise loved travelling, and we were lucky enough to visit many exotic places, such as Turkey and Morocco, often staying at upscale time-shares, to which Denise had access. In 2006 we stayed at a University in X'ian, China, where my son Desmond, along with then-fiancee Stacey, was  teaching English. On the home-front, Denise packed a trailer with camping equipment, and introduced me to the delights of Killarney Provincial Park
(a perennial family favourite), where a racoon memorably stole a loaf of bread from our picnic table. ( This raccoon later bonded  with us and, even though campers are advised to not feed the animals, I have photos of the little fellow accepting food from Denise.)  Out of space. Bye.

 

We were shocked and saddened to hear of Denise’s death.  Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss.


Deepest sympathy on your loss. Our thoughts  are with you at this very sad time.

John, Helen, Keith & Conor Devoy (Ireland)

We were extremely saddened to hear of Denise’s passing. She was an amazing woman who was multi-talented and multifaceted.  Wonderful mother, intelligent, hardworking and a culinary wizard, she had a heart that cared completely for her children, her husband, and all those around her. Wishing Denise’s family peace, comfort and courage to face the days ahead. She will be truly missed, but we will always treasure the time that we spent with her and smile whenever we think of her. 

Much love from Kieran, Jennifer, Aoife and Rowan Devoy

Today some friends of Denise through work
Got together at Springbank Park for a visit and to share memories.
Dorothy,Barb,Anna, Bonnie,Annie ,Irene&Wendy.
Rest In Peace Denise 

I am so sorry for your loss.  I met Denise a number of times. Des and Denise came to Kerry, Ireland, and stayed with me about 10 years ago. It was great to have them around. I was also at the family reunion in Glendalough, where we got to spend a lovely day together. I am happy that Denise and my brother Des found love and companionship with each other. And to Des I send you a virtual hug. So sorry I can’t do it in person. Mind yourself. X maria

Deepest condolences on your loss.  Thinking of you all at this sad time. 

Caroline (in Ireland)

So very sorry for your loss in B.C. Denise always made my family feel so welcome when we came to visit - whether it was me coming down to London in 2005 or my daughter Michaela in 2018 or Loughlin and I in 2019. She made the best salmon I’ve ever had! And Loughlin still treasures the B.C. moose Denise got for her at the legislature. On our first day, Denise, Loughlin and I looked down over Victoria from the top of Mount Douglas. It was a beautiful sight, with the ocean, the blue sky, and the soaring mountains. I believe she is looking down now over Victoria - though from a much better vantage point. May God’s love bring us comfort at this time - as we recognize now that she is at rest and at home with the Lord.

We first met Denise when she and Desmond stopped off in Richmond on their way to Victoria, B.C.  We were very happy then that Des had met such a delightful, friendly partner.  We next met (many years later) at a Devoy family get together in Glendalough in Ireland, when they were a devoted couple. 

We were very saddened to hear the news of Denise's illness and death and can imagine the grief that Desmond and the family are going through. You are all very much in our prayers at this very difficult time.

Love and God Bless,
Joe and Pauline

 


Condolences to you all at Denise's passing. It is such a hard time when you loose a loved one.  Denise will be sadly missed by all who knew her.  I have found memories of my trips to Canada and of Des and Denise's visits here to Ireland. Keeping  you all in our thoughts at this very sad time. 
Carmel and Tommy Callaghan. 

Our thoughts are with you in this sad time. It was always a pleasure to be in Denise's company any time she visited Ireland with Uncle Desmond.  She will be remembered fondly by the Devoy gang.
My sincere condolences to you all.
Susan

We are sharing your sadness as you remember Denise and are so sorry for your loss.  Its such a hard thing to loose a loved one .   No words can express the loss you are feeling at this time.   Our hearts go out to each of you and we are sending healing prayers your way.    We know you will be surrounded by much love and we send ours to you too.  

With love at this sad time from Joan and Steve.



Denise and I worked together at MT.
I enjoyed getting to know her.
We had quite a bit in common due to heritage 
I remember when Denise was planning a trip to Either Belgium o Holland I asked her to pick me up some cotton undershirts for me ,funny that just popped into my head.I still have them ,loved cotton from Europe.
Denise Annie and I got together once and made perogies .
Denise was a great cook.
I was happy for her when she met Des.
Happy that she had him in he life,that he could  share her last years with her
We had lost touch , 
Sad part of life ,you move on and loose touch.
Peace be with you Denise
Des and families 
Barb Depont

I cried when you pass away,
I still cry today.
Although I loved you dearly,
I couldn't make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating,
Hard working hands at rest.
God broke my heart to prove to me 
He only takes the best.

I well never forget your kindness Denise
You will always be in my heart.  
Love you--Dorothy

Sending love to all of you as you go through this difficult and sad time.  I met Denise when Stephen was a baby and helped out when Heather and Brian were born.  I was 19 and looked up to her so much.   I remember so many neat chats, life lessons, neat perspectives.    Denise taught and inspired me so much - to put your kids first, how to cook,  travel, to sew, to be generous, to listen, how to keep a house cute and organized, buy good quality things, how to work hard, how to adventure, to even enjoy the cold weather,  how to try new things and places, how to care for others.  I will miss our chats, hearing about you guys, sharing stuff about my family with her....I'll miss her.  Sending love and hugs...and praying for you all....love you xoxo Rose

OBITUARIO

Denise Anna Jennerich

20 diciembre, 1948 – 30 octubre, 2020

First Memorial Funeral Services

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