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DENNIS RALPH JOHNSON
Date of Passing: Sep 10, 2013
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryDENNIS RALPH JOHNSON October 4, 1937 - September 10, 2013 Unexpectedly, after a severe brain hemorrhage, Dennis' journey on this earth ended, as his spirit was called home by our Heavenly Father. Dennis was surrounded by his loving family and attended to by the amazing doctors and nurses at 3 South at the Grace Hospital. Dennis will be remembered by hundreds from various walks of life. This humble, hard working country boy from Lundar, Manitoba showed extraordinary, entrepreneurial courage when, as a letter carrier by day, he started what is now an over four decades old, successful St. James eatery called D-Jay's Restaurant and Ichabod's Lounge, with pizza touted by many, to be second to none! From the start, he cultivated an atmosphere of quality products and good service. He led by example and there was nothing he asked of others, that he would not do himself. That would probably be the reason hundreds recall, with fond memories, their "first job" with Mr. J at D-Jay's!! The legacy will continue in the capable hands of Dennis' three children, who have learned well from their father. Born as the sixth child to Larus and Olla Johnson (now deceased), Dennis grew up in a loving family in Lundar, MB with brothers Kris (Gladys); Erik and Bill (both now deceased); and with sisters, Eileen, and Helga (now deceased). There he was educated and active in sports. He often reflected how his proudest moment as a youth on the Lundar Midget Team was winning the Manitoba Midget Hockey Championship with teammates who remain as treasured friends to the present time. Dennis married the first love of his life, Jeannette Harrow, in 1958 and they rejoiced in the birth of three children, Michael (Chantal), Robert and Heather. The birth of two grandchildren, Michael's sons, Christopher (Amber) and Scott followed. Dennis, Jeannette and children shared many annual family vacations throughout the US and Canada. After acquiring their cottage at Sandy Hook, a life long friendship was developed with Cliff and Irene Sveinson and family with whom they share many cherished memories. Sadly, Jeannette was diagnosed with M.S., and ultimately passed away leaving a huge void in the life of the family. Two more grandchildren were born to Dennis - Robert's children, Justin and Julia. Dennis was "Afi" (Icelandic for grandpa) to all his grandchildren and he loved each of them unconditionally!!! In 1994, Dennis married Liisa Nygard and with that union his family grew with the addition of Liisa's children, Angela (Marten), their children Courtney, Anders and Ava; her son David (Danielle) and daughters Morgan and Brook; son Kristopher (Barbara) and children, David, Courtney, Max and Jackson; daughter Allison (Cameron) and their daughters Makayla and Annika. Recently, Dennis had the pleasure of becoming a "langafa" (great-grandfather) to Chloe, Mavrick and Owen. There was not a child that was not drawn to Afi...but is it a wonder? He played restaurant' with them at the basement bar; he taught them how to use the pool cues; he taught them fair and honest play in golf. There was no time to grow old! There were recitals, band concerts, sports, and Christmas dinners at the long table set for up to 24 at a time! Dennis loved nothing better! The big front door and Dennis' BIG heart was open to everyone!! Each year the family cottage at Sandy Hook would be the site of a Johnson family reunion and a golf tournament. As the day would end Dennis would sit back in his chair with a loving glow of appreciation for his numerous nieces and nephews, friends and relatives, who made the day so special. Dennis and Liisa travelled extensively: Bahamas to visit Liisa's mother and brother, Hilkka and Peter Nygard; Europe with three grandchildren, Chris, Scott and Courtney, eight countries in 15 days! Los Angeles, Phoenix, Florida, New York....and then there was Golf! Dennis thoroughly enjoyed weekly golfing with the Manitoba Seniors and also with the A.N.A.F. Legion Seniors, most often with buddy Ken Bracken but also with the Gerrards and Dunfords at unique locations like Phoenix and Neepawa. The members of the Shriners Mighty Fife and Drum Band have been an integral part of Dennis Johnson's life. This cohesive group of quality characters, fun loving and musically inclined, brought years of entertainment, experiences, fellowship, love and loyalty to Dennis and his family. As a confirmed Lutheran, Dennis found it comforting and rejuvenating to be a member and to attend services at the St. James Lutheran Church. He led by example for his grandsons who have attended with Dennis and Liisa from the time they were babies. It was always his hope that all his family would find the comfort and reassurance and freedom from fear that comes when you walk with Jesus. Funeral Service will begin on Saturday, September 14, at St. James Lutheran Church, 871 Cavalier Drive with viewing from 9:30 a.m. to 9:50 a.m., service at 10:00 a.m. We will then proceed for the interment to Brookside Cemetery, 3001 Notre Dame Ave., after which the service will continue with a Celebration of Dennis' Life at the Neil Bardal Funeral Centre, 3030 Notre Dame Ave. Pallbearers are: Michael Johnson, Robert Johnson, Heather Kristjansson, Christopher Johnson, Scott Johnson, Justin Johnson, Julia Johnson. Honorary pallbearers are: Kris Johnson, John Breckman, Peter Nygard, Ken Bracken, Ike Toews, Cliff Sveinson, Mark Kristjansson, and Peter Routsis. Donations to the St. James Lutheran Church or to Grace Hospital Foundation may be made in lieu of flowers. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
Publish Date: Sep 13, 2013
DENNIS RALPH JOHNSON On Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at the Grace Hospital, Dennis Johnson passed away at the age of 75 years. A time to celebrate Dennis' life will be held at 10:00 a.m. (with viewing half hour prior to the service), Saturday, September 14 at St. James Lutheran Church, 871 Cavalier Drive. Burial at Brookside Cemetery. Following the burial, the celebration will continue across the street at 12:00 p.m. at Neil Bardal Funeral Centre. Longer notice to follow Friday. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
Publish Date: Sep 12, 2013
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 13, 2013
Condolences & Memories (56 entries)
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We were so shocked and saddened to hear this news. We were really hoping it was a mistake. We will sure miss his wonderful personality, and sense of humor. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family now. Bless - Posted by: Don Kowal and Anne Mabon (Friend) on: Sep 23, 2013
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our sincere condolences to the johnson family on the sad loss of your father...he was always friendly and knew all his customers by name, that is what made your restaurant a nice dining experience for our family..the matiations. - Posted by: elaine matiation (patrons of d jays for many years) on: Sep 17, 2013
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We wish to extend our deepest sympathy to Liisa and the Johnson/Nygård families. Dennis was such a fine gentleman. Our hearts and prayers go out to you at this very difficult time. - Posted by: Robert & Maria Anderson (Jeannette's cousin) on: Sep 16, 2013
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To the Johnson Family Sorry for your loss. He will missed. - Posted by: nancy swanson (ex co- worker (at Djays)) on: Sep 16, 2013
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Dear Johnson Family,.. Dennis was an amazing man... always had a smile on his face... he will be dearly missed by everyone he knew... our thoughts and prayers are with you all... all our love, Debbie & Todd Oliver - Posted by: Todd & Debbie Oliver (Family Friend) on: Sep 16, 2013
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We are all very sorry to hear about the loss of Dennis, we have been coming to DJ's for over 30 years and Dennis always had a warm handshake and a smile, condolences to all. R.I.P. Dennis. Gord and Colleen Matheson. - Posted by: Gord and Colleen Matheson (Patron) on: Sep 15, 2013
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Our thoughts and prayers are with Liisa and the Johnson/Nygard families. - Posted by: Ted & Penny Debrowski (Friends) on: Sep 15, 2013
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My deepest sympathy to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Trusting God's grace and the wonderful memories you have will carry you through your grief. - Posted by: Margaret Rempel () on: Sep 15, 2013
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We are deeply saddened and our hearts and prayers go out to Liisa and the Family-Dennis cared so much even to welcome Xar into the world-What a Wonderful Man To Liisa's Dennis-Your Life was full of Loving deeds. And to Liisa and Johnson Family; Those we love remain with us For love itself lives on And cherished memories never fade Because a loved one's gone Those we love can never be More than a thought apart For as long as there is memory They'll always live on in our hearts Love you Liisa xo Best Wishes and Big Hugs - Posted by: Freya Wendy Kapitan Xar Nygard (Family) on: Sep 14, 2013
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Heather, Rob, Mike and family, Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Love Sylvia, Kayla and Sahmara - Posted by: Sylvia (friend) on: Sep 14, 2013
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My deepest condolences to Liisa & the Johnson/Nygård families. May you find much comfort in many fond & treasured memories of your beloved Dennis in the years ahead. - Posted by: Lonese Bengtson (Nygård associate) on: Sep 14, 2013
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Having known Dennis as a fellow Shriner, patrons of DJ'S and the former employer of our son we always found him to be such a very fine, caring and personable guy. He will be missed greatly by all who knew him. It was our good fortune to have had the opportunity to share time with him. Our thoughts and prayers are for all of his family at this time. - Posted by: Gary and Patricia Hamilton () on: Sep 14, 2013
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Sincere Sympathy Liisa and family at this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Hugs Edna, Stan, Lisa, Valerie and Robert. - Posted by: Edna, Stan, Lisa, Valerie and Robert Vivian (Friends and former neighbours.) on: Sep 14, 2013
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My deepest sympathies to Liisa and to all in the family for this great loss. Dennis was a quality person, a real gentleman and he will be missed by many. He will find peace in Heaven. - Posted by: John Peer (friend of the family) on: Sep 14, 2013
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Uncle Dennis was such a kind and considerate man. He made everyone feel so welcomed and loved. It is a such nice way to have lived life and to be remembered ....and it makes it all the more difficult to accept not being able to be physically around him anymore. Our heartfelt condolences go out at this time to all of his loved ones ... and especially to his children and to my Aunti Liisa. I feel comfort in knowing that Uncle Dennis is in heaven and that he is still with us spiritually ... his voice and laugh and some funny memories are in my mind thinking of him right now ... but his presence will be truly missed in this physical world as he has touched the lives of so many... people left with a better feeling after seeing him then they had before they came - and that is one of the most admirable qualities a person can have in them. We are sending positive thoughts your way during this difficult time - with so much love, Bianca Saylor and Maddex - Posted by: Bianca [Saylor & Maddex] Nygard (Family ) on: Sep 14, 2013
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Our deepest sympathy to the family. We have lots of fond memories during Job's Daughters Days. - Posted by: Bob && Darryl Gill (Friends) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult time and, may your memories bring you comfort in the days ahead. - Posted by: Sharon Jolly (Norquay) & family ((Family Friend)) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Dennis was a really great guy and I'm sorry to hear that he passed. Our prayers are with Liisa and the family. - Posted by: Patricia Bickle (Friend ) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Dennis was a wonderful man who was filled with kindness. He was always very interested in others and had a great sense of humor. His spirit lives on. Love you Dennis and thank you for all of your kindness, consideration and positivity. Miss you already, i know you are in a better place now. - Posted by: Kai Nygard (Uncle in law ) on: Sep 13, 2013
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We met through Liisa Selanne...I send deepest sympathies to Liisa and family and Michael, Robert, Heather and family who are mourning the sudden loss of dear Dennis. I enjoyed our friendship very much..am grateful for the many memories created with food friendship and frivolity! Till we meet again Dennis! - Posted by: Leora Almstrom (friend) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Our deepest condolences to Liisa and the Johnson family. - Posted by: Consulate of Finland;Heikki and Anja Sairanen (Friends) on: Sep 13, 2013
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To all the Johnson family. So sorry to hear of the loss of your father/grandfather. He was always such a gentleman. We aren't able to attend the service tomorrow but you will all be in our thoughts. Hope you get comfort from many fond memories you had together. Love, Larry and Raija - Posted by: Larry, Raija and Davey (family friends) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Mike, Rob, Heather. I and the McIntyre family are so sorry to hear about your dad's passing. What a life! What a St. James institution the restaurant is and will always remain. Thinking of you and your entire families. Scott (Jil), Jane, Nancy, and Mary Jane. - Posted by: Scott McIntyre (Rita St, Customer, Friend) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Mr "J" was a wonderful, wonderful person, My 3 girls and now my Grandson Joshua have worked at D Jays and got to know how to work. All of us wish to extend our deepest sympathy to Lisa and Rob. - Posted by: Al & Pat Gateson, Plus Kristyn,Kathy,Kelly & Joshua (Friends) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Heather, Michael and Robert, My deepest condolences on the loss of your Dad. I often think about the times we shared at Grandma's cottage and the cabin In Sandy Hook. My prayers and thoughts are with your family at this time .... Hugs to all. - Posted by: Angie Firman (Basarab) (Friend) on: Sep 13, 2013
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We will miss the friendly wave and the smile every time you drove by. So sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Steve and Denise Meyer (Neighbours) on: Sep 13, 2013
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My deepest condolences to you and your family Liisa, during this very difficult time. I put my hand out for you to grab, should you need a friend, during this trying time. May God bless you! - Posted by: Barbara Camara (friend) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Johnson family. Bill's days were always made cheerier at lunchtime at D'Jays when Dennis would take the time to chat with him. Rest in Peace Dennis - Posted by: William & Stephanie Young (Friend) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Dennis was a man filled with kindness, love, generosity and respect. What a wonderful legacy of life he has left in the hearts of all that knew & loved him. Much love & sympathy to Liisa and all the children and grandchildren in the Johnson / Nygard extended family - Posted by: Jim Bennett (Friend) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Aunti, We r so sorry for your loss as we ALL LOVED Dennis he was such a great man - he added a lot of stability to the family and was always so kind to Derek and I. Derek and I prayed this morning that God comforts you and his family during this time - Lots of Love Alia & Derek - Posted by: Alia Nygard-Daneault & Derek Daneault (Niece) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Liisa and family..our sincere condolences. Whenever we met Dennis at various functions, he would always greet me and Linda with a warm smile and always caring disposition, wanting to know how we were doing; he was a true gentleman. - Posted by: Len and Linda Nicolas (Friends) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Chris, Robert & Heather, our sincere condolences on the passing of your dear father and a wonderful man. We got to know your Mom & Dad when you came out to Gramma's cottage at Wpg. Beach. Our family friendship went back many generations. Our families had many good times together even helping to build the cottage at Sandy Hook. We will always treasure the great memories. - Posted by: Linda Halldorson (Basarab) (Friend) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Our Deepest Sympathy to Lisa, Michael, Robert and Heather and your families. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you at this very sad time. We will remember the good times had on Rita Street. Bob and Mimi - Posted by: Bob and Mimi Chrystal (Friend and old neighbours) on: Sep 13, 2013
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My first job was at DJ's - and recall fondly the memories and lifelong friends I made there - and interactions with my "first boss", then running into Dennis at the odd Shriner event. Always interesting to talk to, and class act. - Posted by: Troy Blair (DJ's alumni, and fellow Shriner) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Our deepest sympathy to Liisa and the whole family. Dennis was a true gentleman, through and through. We have many fond memories of great times shared. In our thought and prayers. Much love, Rick Wanzel and Martha House - Posted by: Rick Wanzel & Martha House (friends) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Mr. Johnson was a very special person. He will be fondly remembered. Our thoughts are with you at this time. - Posted by: Lori Anderson (Long time customers and past employee) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Mr. J was a great man and will be missed by one and all. My deepest condolences go out to the Johnson family. He will be missed. Richard - Posted by: Richard Wallace (friend) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Mike, Rob and Heather, so sorry to hear about your Dad. Our thoughts are with you and your families. - Posted by: Larry & Wendy Watson (Friends and long-time customers) on: Sep 13, 2013
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Our heartfelt sympathy to the Johnson family. We will fondly remember our many late night pizza parties at D-Jay's. - Posted by: Lloyd & Audrey Taplin, Faye Rondinone (nee Taplin) (Friends) on: Sep 13, 2013
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I was just one of the many lucky ones to have had my first job at DJ's and was taught so many important life skills from Mr. J and the entire Johnson family. The most important of them all; kindness, loyalty and friendship. Thinking of you all. - Posted by: Tina Yaskowich (formerly Colgan) (Family friend) on: Sep 12, 2013
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Bob and I were Patrons of DJ's for the past 20 years and we will miss that friendly smile that was always bestowed on us! Our son Robert worked for D'Jays 15 years ago, and told me it was where he learned his great work ethic. Mike, Heather and Rob, please accept our condolences! Bob and Darlene and Family - Posted by: Bob and Darlene Anderson (Patrons) on: Sep 12, 2013
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Very sorry to hear of your loss, Our thoughts are with you - Posted by: Larry Braun (friend) on: Sep 12, 2013
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Our sincere sympathies to the Johnson Family, Peter and Staff of D-Jays. We were blessed to have known Dennis for so many years. We will miss his friendly visits to our table and the interesting conversations about vacations and family. Our hearts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: David & Georgette Taylor & Family (Friends) on: Sep 12, 2013
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Mike, Heather, and Rob and family. Very sorry to hear of Mr. Jay's passing. He always made a point of visiting patrons of the restaurant. He will be missed. Another angel to watch over all of you. - Posted by: Dianne Anderson and family (friends of the djay family) on: Sep 12, 2013
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We are so very sorry to hear of Dennis' passing. He was a very kind and gentle man. A great neighbor and always so interested in the little ones. He brought us a hot DJ's pizza one day while we were slaving away at our garage sale. He said, "here's a pizza for your family. You probably don't have time to cook". So caring and generous. He will be greatly missed by many. - Posted by: Tammy & John Mulligan (neighbors) () on: Sep 12, 2013
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Condolences to the family. A well spent life which will be remembered by his family and friends. Clifford Hardy & Family - Posted by: Clifford Hardy (Fraternal friend) on: Sep 12, 2013
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Our thoughts & prayers are with Liisa & family ... Dennis will be greatly missed! He was a true gentleman, always welcoming & so very very kind. We loved him very much Eric, Tiina, Paulina & Kian - Posted by: Tiina T (family friend) on: Sep 12, 2013
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My heart goes out to the Johnson family. . Dennis will be missed. . My thoughts are with you all. . . - Posted by: Joan McGregor (Grandparents of Justin and Julia) on: Sep 12, 2013
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Dear Liisa & Family... While our hearts are saddened by the untimely passing of your dear Husband, Dad & Grandpa - we take comfort in knowing that Denis was a man of faith & is now safe in the arms of his heavenly Father... With deepest sympathy, Brent & Lynn Horrill - Posted by: Brent & Lynn Horrill (Friends) on: Sep 11, 2013
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Liisa we are so sorry to hear about your husband. Siiri Vesa, Aila and Rudy Janzen - Posted by: Aila and Rudy Janzen (friend) on: Sep 11, 2013
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We will miss our visits at DJ's. Keep the fond memories in your hearts.. A great Dad and Afi. - Posted by: Steve and Norma Einarson (A Lumdar friend and a restaurant faithful) on: Sep 11, 2013
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The angels looked down from heaven one night They searched for miles afar, And deep within the distance They could see a shining star. They knew that very instant That the star was theirs to gain, So they took you up to heaven Forever to remain. Look down on us from heaven Keep us free from hurt and pain, You'll always be within our hearts Until we meet again. - Posted by: Marie McMillan () on: Sep 11, 2013
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He will be missed, condolences to Liisa from Isokauppila family - Posted by: Kay Isokauppila Wetherill (Friend) on: Sep 11, 2013
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We are so sorry to hear of the sudden passing of Dennis- we have known the family for many years- we would like to extend our deepest wishes to all the family - he will surely be missed thank you - Posted by: dale and phil (friends) on: Sep 11, 2013
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Dear Liisa and family My deepest sympathies in hearing about the passing of your beloved Dennis and may God now guide him on his next journey ... Dennis will be missed by all and in this time of sorrow wish for all of you to take confort in the life he shared with all of you ... Ernie Chaves - Posted by: Ernei Chaves (Friend) on: Sep 11, 2013
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We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences. Our family is going to miss Dennis' "howdy neighbors" welcome. Our prayers are with you Lisa and family. - Posted by: Donna Hamilton (Neighbor) on: Sep 11, 2013
