Nearly a year has passed since we lost a beautiful soul; Denyse was a wife, a mom, a doting grandmother, a sister, a daughter, and a much-loved friend to many. She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 47 years, Giuseppe, her children Chantal (Dave) and Stefan (Lorie), the grandchildren she loved so much, Liam and Isla, her siblings Anny (Richard), Michel (Christiane) and Daniel, brother-in-law Gabriele (Rosanna) and sister-in-law Michelina (Nicola). She will also be greatly missed by her nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends and colleagues.
Denyse was born in a small town outside of Quebec City but moved to Montreal as a child. Fate brought her to her husband, and a move to Vancouver shortly after they were married in 1973. She longed for her family and the city she missed, but eventually welcomed their first daughter and then, a son.
Denyse always put her children first, putting aside her own aspirations to stay home to care for the household. She eventually decided to go back to school to further her education and re-enter the work force. She worked as a bookkeeper and office manager for the Union of Food and Commercial Workers, and became the heart and soul of the office for 25 years where she made many good friends. Earlier this year, UFCW established a scholarship fund in her name to recognize her guidance and dedication to the success of multiple funding programs that helped so many people. This recognition would have made her immensely happy and makes her family so proud.
When her first grandchild was born, Denyse made the difficult decision to retire so that she could help care for him. A few years later, she welcomed her granddaughter. What ensued was a blossoming relationship and love for her grandchildren that included numerous day trips, sleepovers, and countless treats and desserts.
Over the last few years of her life, her journey was one of many highs and lows. However, she never let it stop her from putting her family first. Her resilience and bravery was an inspiration to all who knew her.
The family extends its heartfelt thanks to her compassionate team of nurses and the staff at VGH Hospice/GF Strong who helped us get her home in her last days.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Peter & Paul Parish, 1430 West 38th Avenue Vancouver, on November 20, 2021 at 11am. Covid restrictions in place, but we welcome anyone who would like to join in celebrating her life. A private reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the BC Children’s Hospital or the GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre.