Beloved husband and father, Dennis is survived by his wife of 33 years, Danielle Fox, daughters Shannon Fox (Robert Devennie) and Rhian Fox (Alex Lavoie), sons Gary Fox (Karen Fox) and John Fox (Akiko Fox), and grandkids Ben, Daniel, Matthew, Lauren, Harry and Hannah.
He was predeceased by his parents Betty and Eric Fox, and in-laws Yolande and Ian Mackinnon. Although Dennis had no siblings, he formed strong relationships with his brother & sister in-laws, Ian Mackinnon (Jordan Horlin), Bryan Mackinnon (Ena Sabih) & Barry Mackinnon (Tara Mackinnon).
He will be missed by many friends and family, both in the UK & Canada.
Dennis was born in Boston, England on August 28, 1947. His childhood was spent riding his beloved locomotives across England and Scotland. This is where his life long love for trains was born. As an avid loco lover one of his stubborn passions was making an annual pilgrimage to Severn Valley steam rail centre. In his youth, Dennis would spend his days supporting Boston United through their trials and tribulations and his night celebrating or drowning his sorrows dancing away at the Gliderdrome. Though these passions were strong, Dennis’ life was changed forever when he met Danielle. Danielle was exploring the UK on a tour bus driven by Dennis. Sparks quickly ignited and a few months later, Dennis found himself in Canada where he and Danielle built a home filled with love, laughter and many memories.
While in Canada, his passion for soccer led to many years coaching. On a Friday night, rain or shine, Dennis could be found at a pub making friends, sharing stories and enjoying a bottle of Labatt 50.
The family will receive relatives and friends at McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home, 1411 Hunt Club Road (at Albion Road) on Thursday, July 11, 2024 from 6:00 P.M.- 8:00 P.M. and Friday, July 12, 2024 after 10:00 A.M., followed by a celebration of Dennis` life at 11:00 A.M. in the Chapel. At the family`s request during the celebration of life, anyone who would like to share a story or memory about Dennis is welcome to do so.
In lieu of flowers, we are asking for donations in Dennis’s name to Dementia Society Ottawa & Renfrew County or Severn Valley Railway. For donations to Severn Valley Railway, a cash box and e-transfer information will be available at the Celebration of Life.
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