Dennis Bruce Nolin

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Dennis Bruce Nolin — affectionately known as Den to his wife, Donnie to his family, Pa to his children, and Grampy to his grandchildren — announces his peaceful passing on May 12, 2025, at the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute in Edmonton. He was 77 years old and had faced a long and courageous battle with multiple health challenges, primarily heart failure.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Dennis was the beloved son of the late Leo and Emma Nolin. He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of nearly 55 years, Judy Nolin; his children Shane Nolin (Lisa) and Shelley Fekete; and his four adored grandchildren: Lane and Jessica Nolin, Mya and Jayda Fekete. He also leaves behind his sisters Mary Zimmerman (Rodney) and Sandra Hoff (Brant), as well as many extended family members and lifelong friends who were blessed to know him.

After graduating from Dakota High School in Winnipeg, Dennis began his career apprenticing as an aircraft mechanic with Air Canada. At 21, when the local base relocated to Montreal, he headed west with dreams of making his fortune — but fate had other plans. While working his first job in Shipping and Receiving at the University of Alberta, he slipped, fractured his ankle, and was hospitalized. It was there that he met the love of his life, Judy, who was assigned as his nurse. They married on August 8, 1970, beginning a love story that would span more than five decades.

Dennis went on to work for Partition Systems Ltd. and later earned his certification as an Interior Systems Mechanic from NAIT. He then joined the City of Edmonton’s Buildings and Engineering Department, where he rose from project manager to project director, retiring proudly from a career he poured his heart into.

A man of service and community, Dennis coached his children’s sports teams, served on the board at the local curling club, and contributed to several committees — including at Pelican Bay Resort, where he and his family were founding members and spent their summers for over 20 years.

Dennis lived for adventure. He found joy in curling, golfing, skiing (both snow and water), boating, scuba diving, camping, and fishing. A natural in the water, he taught countless kids — including his own — how to waterski with patience and pride.

Above all, Dennis was a true family man. His devotion to Judy, pride in his children, and unconditional love for his grandchildren were the pillars of his life. He cherished every holiday, every laugh around the fire, and every opportunity to support and uplift his family. With a warm smile, a twinkle in his eye, and a knack for playful mischief, he brought laughter and joy to everyone around him.

A celebration of Dennis’s life will be held on Monday, May 26, 2025, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Lion’s Mane Room at the Dow Centennial Centre in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dennis’s memory may be made to:

• Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada

• Canadian Amyloidosis Support Network (CASN)

These organizations support vital research and awareness efforts for heart disease and amyloidosis — the rare condition that contributed to Dennis’s passing. By supporting these causes, we hope to help others find answers and treatment sooner than he could.

Dennis’s legacy is one of love, laughter, strength, and selfless dedication. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.