DENNIS SCHROFEL

Condolences & Memories (52 entries)

• Rest coach, thank you for so much. - Posted by: Keynes (Student (SH)) on: Jul 21, 2017

• Mr Schrofel was my absolute favourite teacher. He taught me Social Studies and made learning as fun as possible and he was also a great basketball coach. I get tears in my eyes just thinking about him. I am so grateful to have known him (he made a difference in my life). Thank you Mr. Schrofel. - Posted by: Naomi Ratushiak (nee Collins) (student who graduated in 1980) on: May 17, 2014

• I was very sad to hear of the passing of the man I always new as "Mr. Schrofel" since I was 13 years old. He was my first coach in the YMCA's Youth Basketball League, where I also got to meet and play with his wonderful sons. I was not a strong player, but I got great support and encouragement from Dennis to become a better player. I remember him especially as my history teacher at Silver Heights Collegiate. His warm manner, permanent grandfatherly smile, and his great sense of humour made him a student favourite. A great life given in service. - Posted by: Joseph Zebrowski (Former student/player) on: Jan 14, 2014

• I am so sorry to hear of Dennis's passing. A good friend of my mom's, Lois, just informed me. My condolences to Suzanne and the boys and their families. I remember Dennis as a good family friend as well as an excellent teacher and basketball coach. Having lost my mom this year, I can certainly relate to what you and your family are going through. Dennis will be greatly missed, especially for his jokes and his booming laughter. - Posted by: Megan Pollard (Student and family friend) on: Dec 15, 2013

• It was the smile The warmth The joy in friends and family That defined him The light that animated his eyes Whenever he spoke of his grandkids So full of life and love It is not possible that he will not be Dropping in for coffee Hanging out with his old friends Cheering us on at our games Doting on Kate Telling us stories When you needed a friend When you needed a son, a brother Dad or Papa A partner in life Dennis was there With kindness, dedication, caring And tangible acts of love That are long remembered A life well lived is God in this world We have been truly blessed To know him - Posted by: Brenda Miller (sister) on: Dec 06, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel was one of the best. He is part of the reason that I pursued education. He was a funny, warm and genuine teacher who really cared about his kids. Condolences to his family. - Posted by: Meghan Kehoe (nee Mawhinney) (Student- Silver Heights) on: Nov 20, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel you were a true champion. You made students feel valued. Thank you for agreeing to do the toast to the grads of the class of '86, despite your reluctance you were amazing. I feel so proud that you knew that I became a teacher and I will treasure always the secret you shared with me of how to be an amazing teacher - you were right! My condolences to the Schrofel family and I know he lives in the hearts of all those whose lives he touched. - Posted by: Wendy Chase (Student 1981-1986) on: Nov 20, 2013

• My condolences to the Schrofel family. It was a privilege to have shared teaching duties with Dennis at John Taylor. His winning ways, as all the messages attest, were an inspiration to all. - Posted by: David McDowell (friend) on: Nov 18, 2013

• You will surely be missed. You have left an indelible impression on your son and a piece of yourself with him. Robert may you always be blessed with the spirit of your father. God Bless! - Posted by: Angelina Olivier-Job (No relations) on: Nov 12, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel was my history teacher and a friend to my parents. He was one of my favourite teachers of all time. You will be missed. Condolences to the family. xo - Posted by: Dania Hamerton (Student) on: Nov 12, 2013

• My condolences on your loss, I will always remember his warm welcome and booming voice when us kids would drop in to visit John and his brothers. - Posted by: Tamara Wells () on: Nov 12, 2013

• Thoughts and Prayers to the family on the passing of Mr. Schrofel - Posted by: Michelle Johnson (Hrubeniuk) (Neighbour) on: Nov 11, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel was a fantastic history teacher. I had the pleasure of having him as a teacher, but even when I wasn't in his class he always had a smile or witty remark as I passed him in the hallway. Sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Jenn Purdy nee Kitzmann (Student (Silver Heights)) on: Nov 11, 2013

• Dennis was the personification of a caring and an enthusiastic individual - I am fortunate to have known him - Posted by: James Friesen (fellow teacher) on: Nov 11, 2013

• We are so sorry to hear of Dennis's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Suzanne and your family. Dennis was a great neighbour and friend. He will be missed but not forgotten. (Nos sympathies les plus sinceres.) The Rochon family - Posted by: Roger & Florence Rochon (Neighbours at the lake) on: Nov 11, 2013

• We have known Dennis & Suzanne since 1978 when we moved into their neighbourhood. Dennis & his family were highly thought of & we always enjoyed our chats with them, when we would encounter them in our area. You will be missed Dennis & our thoughts are with your family. Sincerely, Jerry & Rose Anderson. - Posted by: Jerry & Rose Anderson (neighbours) on: Nov 11, 2013

• I started grade 10 at Silver Heights part way through the year - not an easy thing. Mr. Schrofel was my first friend there because he welcomed me to the basketball team. He didn't have to do that - I think I might have even missed try outs - but it made such a difference to my sense of belonging. I have many fond memories of traveling to games in his trusty van! Through the 3 years he was always there as a friend, as a guide and as a great teacher. My thoughts are with you at this very difficult time. - Posted by: Chris Smerdon (Student at Silver Heights) on: Nov 11, 2013

• Condolences to Mrs Schrofel and family. Mr Schrofel taught me at John Taylor Collegiate and like most other students, was my favourite teacher. He certainly made us all feel comfortable in his class, always wearing a sweater rather than the usual shirt and tie. I got to know Mr Schrofel and his wife Suzanne a bit better during our "life week" trip to Europe. I found him to be very down to earth and a wonderful person. I recall, at our graduation ceremonies, he put his arm around me and said, "well David, we made it". I was very much looking forward to seeing Mr Schrofel at the JTC 50 year reunion in May 2014 and letting him know what a terrific influence he had in my life. He will be sorely missed. Thank you for some terrific classes Mr Schrofel. - Posted by: Dave Middlestead (Student - John Taylor Collegiate - 1972) on: Nov 11, 2013

• Papa you will truly be missed. Your hugs were the strongest, and your booming laugh truly lit up a room. You made such a great difference in our lives. You adopted us as your own blood and gave all the kids the Papa that they didn't have. You set a standard that we all looked to on how to treat your loved ones and how to make all of your moments count(special ice creams at DQ with grandkids, special trips into town from Falcon). There is no way to thank you for all of your love, and we are just heart broken that the world was robbed of your wonderful light. We loved coming to Falcon and staying with you and Susan and all of our discussions, and priceless family time. Thanks for showing us where the water station was :). Words can't describe how saddened we are. Thank you Susan, Rob, Jim and John for sharing your wonderful husband and father with us. Thank you for marrying my sister Rob so that we could have Dennis in our lives!!! We couldn't have asked for a better Papa and father-father-in-law. xxoo we love you all and send our biggest hugs and kisses your way. Wish we could be there. - Posted by: Angie Vaught (Jonah, Jaxton and Tobyn) (family) on: Nov 10, 2013

• Will always remember the great experience we had on a canoe trip together with our sons. What a fine adventure that was. Dennis added so much to the lives of all the people he came in contact with no matter if it was just for a few days or many years. He gave joy to so many. Thanks Dennis for being you and for all that you shared with others. Gary Hamilton - Posted by: Gary Hamilton (one time canoeing companion and fellow teacher) on: Nov 10, 2013

• He was a great teacher with a good sense of humor.. He even used to let me play my "boombox" as we called it in the 80's in his classroom in Silver Heights. Too bad all teachers were not as good as him. - Posted by: Clff Brown (Student) on: Nov 10, 2013

• I am sorry to hear of Dennis Schrofel's passing. He was the Vice-Principal at Bruce Junior High when I was there for 1 year in 1983-84. He then followed me over to Silver Heights Collegiate the following school year. I thought of him as a mentor; he was firm but fair in his treatment of students. He used to jokingly tease me about whatever funny clothes or haircut I had at the time. It was a real joy to have him as a teacher. - Posted by: Bryan Coates (Student) on: Nov 10, 2013

• I had the good fortune of knowing Mr. Schrofel as a student. He was also a friend of our family. I have fond memories of him. As a teacher, his sense of humour and warm soul were evident, yet he commanded respect and held us to a high standard. He was revered. My thoughts and condolences are with the Schrofel family. - Posted by: J.P. Zubec (Student and Family Friend) on: Nov 10, 2013

• Our prayers and deepest sympathies to the Schrofel family. - Posted by: Rick, Tammy, Travis, Justin and Dylan Hrubeniuk (Neighbour) on: Nov 10, 2013

• Wow, a true teacher who encouraged and also handled the delicate line of discipline. One time I had handed in an assignment that I didn't really apply myself to very well. Mr. Schrofel asked me to chat with him after class and he asked me "do you think this is your best work?" I knew he was right, but he didn't make me feel wrong. I remember going home and wanting to do my best work. He inspired people's best and made a huge difference in my life for applying myself. Bless you all at this time; he was indeed a good man. - Posted by: Valerie Cade (Student at Silver Heights 1984-1986) on: Nov 10, 2013

• Our family's thoughts are with your whole family. We will sure miss Dennis's hugely kind personality and enthusiastic and good-natured way with everyone he encountered. - Posted by: Betsy Troutt (Co-coach & friend) on: Nov 10, 2013

• Mr Schrofel was a great teacher, coach and advisor. Many fond memories of basketball games, and history classes. - Posted by: Paula Bonner (SH student 1987) on: Nov 10, 2013

• Dennis (or "Schrofe" as we called him back then) made a positive impact on so many young lives as a teacher. He won't be forgotten. - Posted by: Sher Kirk (Student (Silver Heights)) on: Nov 10, 2013

• Suzanne, we are sorry to hear of Dennis's passing. Jeananne did call but was not able to talk to you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, our sympathy goes out to your family. - Posted by: Ronald & Jeananne Salome (Friend) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel was one of my teachers in high school. He always taught with enthusiasm, and I remember him fondly. The world has lost a good man. - Posted by: Joy Daly (former student (Silver Heights)) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Best teacher ever... thank you for the inspiration, confidence and laughter. - Posted by: Marion Cockriell (student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of Dennis. As a medical student, I had the pleasure of getting to know Dennis through the Standardized Patient Program. Although I probably know the many characters he role played better than Dennis himself, his caring soul and his love of teaching always was evident. His contribution to the future of medicine will always be present. Dennis will continue to live in your hearts through the many memories that you share and he will continue to live on in our minds through the many lessons he has taught us. - Posted by: Ashleigh Sprange (Student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• My thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of Dennis. As a medical student, I had the pleasure of getting to know Dennis through the Standardized Patient Program. Although I probably know the many characters he role played better than Dennis himself, his caring soul and his love of teaching always was evident. His contribution to the future of medicine was will always be present. Dennis will continue to live in your hearts through the many memories that you share and he will continue to live on in our minds through the many lessons he has taught us. - Posted by: Ashleigh Sprange (Student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Dennis lived his life with integrity, dignity and a great sense of humor, - a winning combination for a true human being. Please accept our sympathies. - Posted by: Michelle Grenier and Rod Garson (friends) on: Nov 09, 2013

• From our family to yours, we are very sorry about the loss of your dad Jimmy! - Posted by: Shauna Kapusta (friend) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel was my favourite teacher and my awesome basketball coach at Silver Heights from 1990-93. It was so obvious that he cared for his students and loved his job. In the classroom he made history easy and fun and on the basketball court he helped me develop my skills and confidence. I wasn't the best basketball player, but he made me feel like I was, and emphasized the value of hard work and dedication. He had such a knack for developing a connection with students. I remember having a really bad day once and as I was walking through the hallway he somehow picked up on it and stopped to ask me if everything was okay. I will never forget his kindness, friendly nature and great sense of humour. I am now a teacher myself and Mr. Schrofel's influence has made me a better teacher as I form positive relationships with my own students. I am so sad to hear of his passing and I am glad to have run into him several times in the community over the years. He always remembered me and greeted me like no time had passed. Mr. Schrofel will be missed by many and although he is no longer with us, his influence and the difference he made for students like me, will carry on for many years to come! - Posted by: Jody van de Vijsel (Student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• I remember Dennis Schrofel as an outstanding teacher with a warm and engaging personality. He inspired me and many of my classmates and showed himself concerned not only with what we learned but with our character. His influence is felt to this day. My deepest condolences to his family. - Posted by: Elin Goulden (Former student (Silver Heights Collegiate)) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Dennis coached my basketball team at Silver and the skills he taught me were used years later when I became a bb coach. His life lessons and compassion for his students are a part of my own practices and I hope to meet his standards. My deepest sympathy to his family, especially our bb manager, Dennis's son, Jim. - Posted by: Jill Ferris (Former student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel had the greatest sense of humour out of all the teachers I had growing up. The stories I could tell would not justify how hilarious he really was. Every now and then, I would think about him and wonder what he was up too. He will be sadly missed but I will always treasure those times together and the stories that came out of them. - Posted by: Tracy Cartwright (Student from John Taylor Collegiate) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Thank you Dennis for contributing to my education. You were my first standardized patient (and hence my first patient in my books) and I'll never forget. I hope that one day I will be able to apply the things you taught me to the practice of medicine. - Posted by: Chris (Medical Student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Mr Schrofel was my teacher in junior high and high school. I feel extremely fortunate that he was my teacher and basketball coach. The impact he had on my life is immeasurable. Words cannot express how much he will be missed and how much I wish he knew what a special teacher he was to so many. He stepped in and stopped other kids from bullying my sister and myself. We no longer walked to school in fear after he found out. I will never forget. As a matter of fact, I think of him often. Sending lots of love to his family at this sad time. - Posted by: Marianne Sawchuk (Student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel was my teacher at Bruce and Silver Heights and he was my favorite teacher - ever! He was kind, caring, engaged and very encouraging. I can honestly say that he influenced my post-secondary path in very positive ways. I looked him up about 15 years ago and did a little filming about history in Winnipeg. He was gracious, open and sincere. My heartfelt condolences to the Schrofel family. Know that he has touched many many lives. - Posted by: Michelle Smith (former student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Mr. Schrogel was my history teacher in high school. I remember him as a wonderful teacher and his encouragement meant so much to me. - Posted by: Sandra Nixon (Student, Silver Heights) on: Nov 09, 2013

• My condolences to your whole family. Mr Schrofel was a great teacher and principal that I remember fondly. He was always there to greet you with a smile and good morning followed by your name, how he remembered all our names is amazing. There are teachers that you always remember and who have become part of our fond memories of school and Mr. Schrofel will always be one of them! When a person becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure. - Posted by: Kristin Whittaker (nee:Blatz) (Former Student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• I am sorry to hear of Mr Schrofel's passing. He was a kind man and a wonderful teacher. - Posted by: charlotte m (student) on: Nov 09, 2013

• We will miss Dennis. He had the best smile and laugh of anyone I know. We were lucky to know him. Our thoughts are with all of you - Posted by: Brian and geri (Friend) on: Nov 09, 2013

• Dennis was a true friend. Weekday coffee with him was a time of fellowship and relaxation. It is impossible to say in words how much he will be missed. - Posted by: The Lautermilchs (Lincoln) (Fellow educator and coffee buddy) on: Nov 09, 2013

• My sympathies to Dennis' family. Dennis was a wonderful individual and his work with the standardized patient program at the University of Manitoba Medical school has certainly made an impact on the next generation of doctors. He was a great clinical actor, told us humorous stories from his life during exam breaks, and had a real talent for giving critical feedback in a positive, supportive manner. From my classmates and myself, please know that Dennis will not be forgotten. - Posted by: Heather (Student) on: Nov 08, 2013

• Mr. Schrofel was a friend to all. Not only was he an amazing teacher and coach, he was a mentor who touched many people's lives. For many of us, Mr. Schrofel was instrumental in developing our character, and impacted our lives in such a way to guide us to be the people we are today. Mr. Schrofel will forever be remembered for his kind spirit, his dedication to his friends and family, his tenacity on the basketball court, and his overall gift to teach. He will be missed by all. Lots of love to the family. Jen xo - Posted by: Jen Campbell (friend) on: Nov 06, 2013

• Our heartfelt condolences go out to Suzanne and Family. Dennis was a wonderful person whom we were very privileged to have known. - Posted by: Noreen and Peter Kelleher (Friend) on: Nov 06, 2013

• I'm very sorry to hear about the passing of your husband, dad. I remember him as being a big presence and a kind person. My thoughts are with you as you adjust to a world that he no longer inhabits. Take care. - Posted by: Cheryl Moore () on: Nov 06, 2013

• We were all so very sorry to hear about Dennis, will miss our visits from the backyard. Miss his booming voice. Our deepest sympathies to all of the family!!! - Posted by: Kim, Marna, Riley, and Taylor Laurans (neighbors) on: Nov 06, 2013