Dennis O'Brien

Dad was born in Edmonton to Patrick and Doris O’Brien. His family moved around Alberta, eventually settling in Calgary. He went to school at James Short, Cliff Bungalow, Rideau and Western Canada High. He served with the RCAF during WW II. After the war, Dad had a career in the automotive industry as an instrument mechanic. He was with Egglestone Automotive for many wonderful years, working with his childhood friend, Charlie Egglestone and Charlie’s father, Joe. Dad was well known and highly respected for his expertise in instrumentation, working closely with the RCMP, the Calgary Police Service and the Taxi industry. He also designed and built oilfield service equipment for Nowsco and Halliburton. In later years, Dad took his expertise to Mr. Speedometer where he was a friend and mentor to many.

When retired, Dad and Wynn enjoyed cross-country skiing, biking and many wonderful hours walking in Fish Creek Park where they met and visited with many new friends from their neighborhood. They also enjoyed travelling with friends and family, including both Alaskan and Caribbean Cruises. One special joy was their trip to Ireland and England to trace their lineage and meet family members for the first time.

Dad will be lovingly remembered by Wynn, as well as by his eight children and their spouses; Pat and Arlene, Shannon and Brian, Mike and Brenda, Kerry and Berni, Bruce and Pamela, Jeff and Dianne, David and Ginetta, and Melanie; eighteen grandchildren; Julie (Mark), Tom (Patti), Will (Mandi); Janelle (Kevin), Caden (Mike); Darby (David), Kelly, Kevin; Brady, Kate; Devin, Riley; Kaytlan, Kelsey, Hannah; Jackie, Joey and Dexter; seven great-grandchildren; Camille, Amelia, Clara; Ty, Fynn; Rylan and Kenley.

Dad is also survived by Wynn’s loving family; Marilyn and Jerry, Barry and Maura, Brent and Debbie; four grandchildren; Jennifer (Casey), Jeremy (Lauri), Becky, Amy (Oliver); five great-grandchildren; Sam, James, Bronwyn; Erica and Harper.

He will be missed by many wonderful friends, especially Tami Lens, our wonderful neighbour and friend for over 50 years, and his brother-in-law, Jack Wren of Vulcan, AB as well as many nieces and nephews who hold fond memories of Uncle Denny.

Denny was predeceased by his parents, an elder brother Brian, a twin sister Doreen, an infant son Tony in 1955, and his loving wife and our wonderful mom, Anita (nee McDonald) in 1974.

In 1945, when Mom and Dad met, he was warmly embraced by her large, loving and ever expanding family. He was the last surviving member of their generation in that part of the McDonald Clan. Those left behind have many fond memories of him bringing his warmth and humour to lighten every family gathering which was especially valued on the many occasions that we gathered to grieve the loss of a beloved family member. No one would be surprised to know that he joked until the end.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the many wonderful, compassionate and caring individuals who cared for Dad and lent their support to all of us during Dad’s illness.

A family gathering was held in Dad’s honour.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to: Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre (722 – 16 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6V7), Heart and Stroke Foundation (#200, 119 – 14 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6), Tom Baker Cancer Centre (1331 – 29 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4N2), Foothills Hospital, 1403 – 29 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2T9) or the charity of the donor’s choice.