Dennis Chalmers

Dennis Chalmers, born on August 17, 1940, in Lethbridge, Alberta, to William Chalmers and Alice Chalmers (nee Guest), passed away peacefully in Langley on May 2, 2025, surrounded by his family. A strong, kind, and gentle man with a one-of-a-kind sense of humor, Dennis was deeply loved by all who knew him.

To his beloved wife, Sharlene, he was “Hon,” her companion in sunshine, hand-in-hand walks, and quiet moments of people-watching while she knitted. Their love was deep, enduring, and filled with laughter, even in the hardest of times.

He was “Dad” to Connie, and Rene, Joshua, and Micah, he became better known as Pa. He loved his people with all that was within him, always greeting everyone with a heartfelt smile. He would squeeze them nearly to death with his hugs and his sweet voice would whisper, “I love you” in their ear. Everything a daughter needed to hear. Pa always showed her that she was still his little girl. He loved her husband, Rene, like a son, and was always so proud of his grandsons, often gesture with a firm handshake. He will greatly be missed, but we are comforted that he is at peace.

To Darla —his “Weezy”—he was a quiet source of strength—always there with a calming presence, a gentle pat, and a heart full of love. Their bond began when she was very young, over countless breakfasts—French toast was always her favorite. He was the king of nicknames and inside jokes, and their shared love of ice cream made every car ride and outing feel special. He was always up for a road trip, and those adventures were filled with laughter—especially at his silly comments—and sweet stops for ice cream or lemon meringue pie. Sometimes, they’d just sit together in the sun, saying nothing at all, simply soaking in the deep connection they shared. He had a way of making everyone Darla loves feel welcomed and cherished—but for her, the best part was simply being with him.

He was affectionately known as “Pa” to all connected to his grandchildren, “Uncle Dennis” to his nieces and nephews, and “Denny” to his family from long ago. Each name carried with it fond memories of his quiet nature, warm presence, and unmistakable laugh.

As “Pa,” he was fiercely protective of his granddaughters. Mornings often began with breakfast together, a cherished routine that created lasting memories. He walked Jocelyn to school until she was twelve and watched over Jaye-Lynn as she headed to high school. Jocelyn loved his humor—especially his jokes about her ripped jeans being “half-price.” With Jaye-Lynn, he shared a love of baking, teaching her how to make his famous buttercream icing—then proudly telling everyone that hers was even better than his. Even as his memory faded, he never forgot Keldan, Jaye-Lynn’s fiancé, and his excitement for their upcoming wedding means the world to her.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents and several dear family members who held a special place in his heart.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sharlene; his daughters, Darla Chalmers (David Dendaas) and Connie van den Broek (Rene); and his cherished grandchildren, Jaye-Lynn Dendaas (Keldan McGowan); Jocelyn Dendaas; Joshua van den Broek; and Micah van den Broek.

The family will honor Dennis’ memory privately, as he wished. No public service will be held. Friends and loved ones are invited to remember Dennis in their own way—perhaps with a walk in the sun or a quiet moment of reflection. The family thanks everyone for their love and support during this time.

Dennis leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and deep devotion to his family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, and all who had the joy of knowing him. Now, he can rest easy—pull up a chair in the clouds, and watch over the beautiful lives he helped shape.