DENNIS HUGH WARDROP

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

DENNIS HUGH WARDROP 1932 - 2013 It is with great heartache that we announce the peaceful passing of Dennis Hugh Wardrop on Wednesday, November 6, 2013. Dennis is survived by his wife of fifty-four years Elaine, three sons, of whom he was very proud, Hugh (Allana), Dave (Kim) and Craig (Jody), six grandsons: Andrew, Matthew, Parker, Eric, Colton and Cameron and one granddaughter Kelsey. Dennis was pre-deceased by his parents Albert and Mary Ellen and by his brother Carmody. We, his family, give thanks for having had this wonderful and remarkable man as such an important part of our lives. Dennis was born December 8, 1932 and grew up in the communities of Whitemouth, Winnipeg and Pine Falls. His modest upbringing during the great depression and through the Second World War had a profound influence on how he lived his life. Dennis took nothing for granted, and took an objective and sensible approach to everything he did. He generously shared his wisdom and depth of character with those around him; "There are no guarantees in life, just good decisions". In 1954, Dennis graduated from The University of Manitoba Faculty of Science where he excelled in an environment of learning. His love and thirst for knowledge was something that he carried throughout his life. During his thirty-eight year career with Manitoba Telephone System, which included his appointment to the position of Acting President and CEO, Dennis enjoyed his association with many fine people at MTS, Trans Canada Telephone System, Manitoba Data Services, the Telephone Pioneers of America and many other organizations with which he had the opportunity to work. Dennis loved to create and build. He took great enjoyment in do-it-yourself projects. These included designing the family homes, developing his own photographs, countless electronic, woodworking and mechanical projects, and building toys for his grand-children. No job was ever too big or too complex for him to take on. Nor was any request for his help too small or unimportant for him to lend his expertise and gifted hands to ensure the job was done right, as sharing his time and talents with others was his greatest joy. Precious times included building a TV set with his young sons, finishing a rec room with Hugh and Allana, constructing family room tables alongside Dave and Kim, helping with a cottage addition for extended family, building a wheelchair ramp for a neighbor or a grandfather clock for friends. He would tackle any repair job on a favourite toy with enthusiasm; "Grandpa can fix it!" Every new challenge was an opportunity to learn for Dennis, and he and Elaine would make a trip to the library a regular part of their lives for many years in search of books, magazines or other sources of information required in researching the latest project. Dennis was a committed and loving husband, father and grandfather who always placed the highest priority on his family. The love that he and Elaine shared was enduring and very special. The home they provided together was full of love, comfort and support. He always emphasized that family came first, followed by work and helping others. His own personal interests were always the last to be considered. Dennis was the helping hand in science fair projects and the lead chauffeur and tour guide for the annual summer vacation road trips. He took great joy in his grandchildren, the special times they shared, and never tired of talking about their successes and achievements. We will remember his laugh, his smile, his love and his willingness to lend a hand. We will remember his wisdom, his skill and his thirst for knowledge. We will remember his guidance and his support. And we cherish the time we had together. We give thanks for the love, strength and support from so many as we walked this road. Your endless kindness and assistance helped ensure the best for Dennis through to his final days. A celebration of Dennis' life will be held at St. Timothy Parish, 135 John Forsyth Road, Winnipeg at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 12, with Father Phil Daley presiding. The family would appreciate anyone wishing to make a remembrance in Dennis' name to benefit The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 10 - 120 Donald St., Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4G2. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 09, 2013