We are brokenhearted to share that on Sunday, May 26, 2024, our family lost a loving husband, treasured Dad and adored Grandpa.

In his 75th year, Denis was surrounded by his family throughout his brief illness and at the end.

Beloved husband of Marie. Devoted father of Emma (John), Timothy (Jenn), Daniel (Krystle), and the late Jennifer.

Cherished grandfather of Elizabeth, John, Gavin, Carson, and Claire.

Dear brother of Rory Savage and brother-in-law of Josephine. Predeceased by his siblings Moya Harman (Don) and Joseph Savage.

Denis will be fondly remembered by all his family and friends in Canada, Ireland, England and Australia.

Denis was an incredible force and was adored by so many in ways that continue to reveal themselves. His gentle and social nature meant that he was the life of every party. He was charismatic and engaging and always had a story and we are in awe of how many people often take the time to share the incredible ways he made his mark in their lives.

Denis was the man everyone relied on, whether for a lift in his “good ride taxi”, attending sports and activities for his kids and grandkids, taking a load to the dump, minding grandkids, giving gardening advice, to his classic dad jokes, he approached every interaction with kindness and love. An avid horticulturist, Denis will forever be famous for his exquisite gardens and perfect lawn, the envy of every neighbour.

On sunny evenings, Denis could be found happily sitting on the front porch, greeting passing neighbours and friends who have been shattered by his sudden absence. Most importantly, Denis was an adored husband, father and grandpa. This summer marks 50 years in Canada for Denis and Marie who would have been celebrating their golden anniversary this June.

Building a beautiful life together, Denis and Marie created a home where everyone felt welcome and loved. For each of his children, he was everything, the person you could call anytime for anything, and his dropins and calls were always welcome and sometimes just what you needed for a new perspective, good advice, a silly story or a ridiculous joke, that is if he could stop laughing at his jokes long enough to deliver the punchline.

Denis is also utterly adored by his grandchildren who are devastated by his loss but who will remember him fondly and forever as the very present and engaged force in all of their lives. From cuddling and rocking them as babies to delighting in their every achievement from first steps and words to hockey games and graduations to driving lessons and Facetime chats, he was in touch daily and they are so very lucky to have felt such love.

Our family is shattered by this enormous loss especially so soon after losing Jennifer. We pray they are together and at peace.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2024 from 2-5 p.m. at ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME (124 King St. E., Oshawa). A Funeral Service will follow in the Chapel at 5 p.m. Cremation to follow.

In place of flowers, and as a nod to Denis’s generosity and care for others, please consider a donation to Simcoe Hall Settlement House, food bank.

Online condolences may be shared at armstrongfh.ca .