(1929-2025)
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved patriarch, he left us peacefully on March 11,2025. He was welcomed into the glory of God and reunited with his “darling”, Charmaine, our mother and his wife of nearly 65 years.
Denis was born in Ottawa, Canada on November 23 1929, to Arthur and Georgina. He was the middle son of 5 children and adored his siblings, Michael, Carmen, Bert and Mary, all of whom preceded him in death.
His family came to California in 1941, settling in Huron. He would reminisce about his birthplace, “a very Metropolitan city”. As a teen his family relocated to Fresno, where he was much happier.
He was always bright and quick witted and sang beautifully. He graduated from Coalinga high school and spoke fondly of a teacher who cultivated his voice.
Our parents met as teenagers and made a striking couple. They were married September 22, 1951 and remained devoted to one another until our mother’s passing. Shortly before his departure to begin his military service with the US Army at Fort Ord, they moved to the Carmel area. He enjoyed his travels with the military and was proud of his service during the Korean war.
They settled in Fresno, where they purchased their first house. They built a life together creating a loving home where they lived for over six decades.
He was employed by PG&E for forty years. Later in life, he proudly obtained his real estate license.
In his adult life, he was a dedicated volunteer with Right for Life and Catholic Charities. He also touched the lives of many children in his nearly 10 years of service at the Phoenix Academy. They lovingly honored him on his 90th birthday.
He is survived by four children, Kevin(Elisa), Laura Woods(Jeffrey), Denise Hoffman(Frank), Paul(Karen) and former daughter-in-law Georgia. He was a fun, loving and spirited grandfather to 15 and 8 partners who joined our family. He had 14 great-grandchildren with another on the way.
“Pokey” was known for his optimism and kind spirit. His many life experiences allowed for his sage advice, which he often shared. He never knew a stranger and was admired for seeing the good in everyone.
Denis was one of the last surviving members of a large Irish Catholic family. He was predeceased by his parents, siblings, wife, two infant sons, in-laws, and many dear friends and family members.
His legacy of love, faith, indelible spirit, physical stunts and mischievous ways will continue to live on through all who were blessed to know him.
A Recitation of the Holy Rosary and Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025 at 1:00 pm, at The Shrine of Saint Therese Catholic Church, in honor of a life well lived.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Hinds Hospice, 2490 W Shaw Ste. 101, Fresno, CA 93711 or Nazareth House, 2121 N. First St., Fresno, CA 93703, where he was lovingly cared for, or a favorite charity.
His unwavering faith, dedication and love for his family will forever remain in our hearts.
Please know dad, we will always “be good to one another".
To Attend the Funeral Mass for Denis, Please click the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82334590439?pwd=xTsDhDDaZVbtLmqwM3U8edcdUWoArl.1
