Dennis Ducharme of R.R. 2 Zurich passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family and friends on Friday, February 20, 2009, in his 61st year. Beloved husband and best friend of Lydia. Dear step-father to Stephanie and Jeff Cecile and Christine Trottier and Matt Lefaive. Dennis will be greatly missed by Brandon, Connor and Kaden Cecile. Loving brother of Marie-Anne and Bill Grenier and Rosemary and Jerry VanBruaene. Dear brother-in-law of Helene and Alex Malcolm and Mark and Janet Rouffer. Son-in-law of Anne Zelenak. Dennis was a cherished uncle to many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Victor (1976) and Viola (2004) and brother Jerome (1996). Dennis was a French teacher with the Greater Essex County Board of Education in Belle River and Kingsville for 32 years. Dennis was a much respected coach for track and field and girls basketball. He organized student trips to Europe and Quebec for many years. Dennis enjoyed and was the driving force behind spring proms, fashion shows and many other school events. He was a tireless fund-raiser for the French Club and gave freely of his time to many community events. Dennis looked forward to co-hosting the annual 3D Golf Tournament at his orchard. After retirement Dennis returned to the family homestead at St. Joseph to continue his passion for farming. He was fortunate to be able to fulfill his wish to pass away in the same home in which he was born. Dennis had an infectious zest for life, family and friends. He inspired others with his generous nature, solid work ethic and playful sense of humor. Dennis will be sorely missed by his church community.
Visitation in the J. M. McBeath Funeral Home, 49 Goshen St. N., Zurich on Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. and Wednesday from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. The funeral mass will be celebrated in St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church St. Joseph, Ont on Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 11 a.m. Fr. Peter Keller celebrant. Parish prayers will be said on Tuesday at 9 p.m. and a Knights of Columbus Council 5289 service on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Cremation to follow the mass.
Memorial contributions may be made to the London Regional Cancer Center or Blessings Food Bank, Zurich, Ont.
DUCHARME: Dennis of Zurich
Haskett Funeral Homes
: Hi Lydia
Just a little hello to let you know you are always in our prayers.
God Bless You!
Condolence From: Jessica
Dear Aunt Lydia,
I am very sorry about Dennis died at a young age but I know now that he was very ill because of his Cancer. I know that he would be very proud of all of his family and friends on the day we had his funeral it would have been what he wanted. I can not wait until we are together when we put him under the ground. I know that he is very happy now with God because he was very into our religion. Even though he is not here he is still tell me to be a better person and be myself. I want to be just like him in some way because he was a strong person in heart and mind and he did so much for everyone.
Condolence From: Mary Lou Gunning & Suzanne Bell (Rau)
Our thoughts & prayers are with you all at this sad time.May your wonderful memories of a dear husband,brother & grandfather keep him always close to you. With our deepest sympathy. Mary Lou, Suzanne & Families.
Condolence From: Fred Miller
Lydia
We are so very sorry to learn of Denny’s passing. Jackie and I had the pleasure of getting to know Denny when we were students at KDHS many years ago. And years later we had the greater fortune of Denny teaching both of our daughters. As a family we have fond memories of basketball, fashion shows and french trips. Denny was a one of a kind guy and will be greatly missed.
Once again we extend our sympathy, may God grant you his peace and understanding in your time of loss.
Fred, Jackie, Rae-Anne & Stacy Miller
Condolence From: Leo and Lindsey Ducharme and Family
To the Family and Friends of Dennis
Our heartfelt sympathy to all. He was a shining star upon this earth, who’s light was cut off way to soon. Take comfort in knowing that he continues to shine in spirit and will carry on touching our souls. Love and Hugs Leo, Lindsey Ducharme and Family
Condolence From: Janey Piroli
Lydia, my condolences go out to you and your family. I sit and think of just what to write, there is one recurring thought that I have… how wonderful would it be if upon our own passing, we could all say that we impacted the lives of so many people in such an incredibly positive way. The wonderful memories of high school flip through my mind like a memory book… basketball, French class, fundraising events, fashion shows. He taught us how to work hard on the court and play well off… he was certainly a sport during the ‘slave day’ event and only smiled when he returned from the Quebec trip to find his car completed wrapped in paper! He found a way to give us experiences that I know we would never have otherwise had (Cirque, California, London on the Thames to name a few).
Most importantly Dennis was a mentor and a friend. It was wonderful to re-connect with him when we could and glad that I had the chance to touch base with him this December.
He’ll be missed greatly and will always hold a very special place in my heart.
Condolence From: Don and Lori Huson
Denny Ducharme was a man few could wish to live up to. He was generous and kind in spirit, always positive, and naturally put others first. He touched my life during the many years I taught with him at KDHS, and I enjoyed an enourmous respect for him. Also very endearing was how humble Denny was. He didn’t like to be lavished with praise, but rather he preferred to be the one to give it. It was wonderful to see him find love with Lydia. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Lydia. May you take comfort in your many beautiful memories.
Red and Lori Huson
Condolence From: Angela Pearce Kisinger
My heartfelt condolence to the family and friends of Mr Ducharme. He was a person who dedicated so much of his time and energy and helped me to be the person I am today. He was my basketball coach (and track coach) in the 80’s and taught me so many valuable lessons. He believed in us and helped us to develop self esteem and self worth. He truly was a man we could all look up to. My prayers go out to all the people he touched.
Condolence From: Lindsay Hungler
Dear Lydia,
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dennis was an amazing person with a passion for life. He was my teacher, mentor and most importantly my friend. I will miss him.
Thinking of you,
Lindsay
Condolence From: Brad Johnson
There was not a time I don’t remember Denny not full of zest and energy. A mentor through my school years and a friend after graduation. My condolences to Lydia and families for this untimely loss. He will be missed but never forgotten. Brad Johnson (1983)
Condolence From: Brian Boivin
I am very saddened to hear about the passing of Dennis, I remember as a child staying at the house on the farm with him and his family, and Dennis being very friendly and always smiling, they were all very dear people, my thoughts prayers and condolences. Brian Boivin (Monica’s son)
Condolence From: Barbara & John Hungler
Dear Lydia – Our heartfelt condolences go to you and your family. When we think of Dennis, over thirty years of great memories come to mind – the “Coffee Clutch”, crud at Red’s, apres basketball debriefings, celebrating your marriage, moving day in the fire truck, checking out the orchards, breakfasts in Europe …… just to recall a few. As you can see, Denny has woven himself into the fabric of our lives. We feel very blessed. He was the kindest and most positive of men. We hope that we can always live up to his example. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. John & Barbara Hungler
Condolence From: Marie (Denomme) Sawa
Dear Marianne and the Ducharme Family, Please accept my sincere condolenses on the loss of your brother. Dennis was a very special person. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Marie
Condolence From: Jackie Kerr
Lydia, Rosie & MaryAnn, as you scroll through all the messages we can really relate what a great man Dennis was and will always be remembered for his great sence of humor and compassion for all. I will never forget him and he will always be in my heart. My sincere condolences to you all, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and in the future. Love Jackie
Condolence From: Phil and Yvonne Smith
Dear Lydia Dennis was a giant of a man, who spread so much joy and love to everyone he met. Phil and I were privileged to have known him. Our prayers are with you Lydia at this most difficult time. May God shower you with peace and love. Phil and Yvonne Smith (Papineau)
Condolence From: Martha and Joe Risi
Our heartfelt condolences to ALL the Ducharme family. Dennis was one wonderful person. He always knew what to say in sadness to give comfort. He was always ready to add a laugh and a smile to spread happiness. He will be forever missed. We love you ALL and are praying for you through this time of sadness. Martha, Joe and family
Condolence From: Susan Thouin (Buchanan)
Dear Lydia and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I have so many wonderful memories of time spent with Mr. Ducharme. The countless hours he took coaching us from the sidelines… the encouragement he gave even when the basketball plays went completely wrong. His smile in the hallways of KDHS that always made your day brighter. He was so dedicated to the students, the community, his friends, and family. What a wonderful role model. Just know what a difference he made in so many lives and how his influence will be carried on for years to come.
Take care, Susan Thouin (Buchanan)
Condolence From: Keith & Rita Trottier
Dear Lydia and Family, With deepest sympathy and that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Keith, Rita and Family
Condolence From: Robert Pare
I would like to send my deepest sympathies to the family of Mr. Ducharme. My life at KDHS was filled with memories that will last a lifetime. Some of the fondest memories of my high school career were spent with Mr. Ducharme. He always took time from his busy schedule to help with projects and events that benefited my friends and myself. I was fortunate enough to be able to enjoy a wonderful trip to Quebec and I toured the cities of Europe with him. His countless hours of planning and his free time that he spent organizing fund raisers, and working in smoke filled bingo halls on a Friday or Saturday nights was a tribute to how much he loved his students. He was a wonderful man and I will miss him.
Condolence From: Delores Gingerich
Lydia, My thoughts and prayers are with you! Delores Gingerich
Condolence From: Scott & Lisa (Papineau) Burmann, Paul & Timothy
Dennis was a wonderful man. I first remember meeting him about 37 years ago when I sat on my dad’s lap eating some of Vi’s yummy butter tarts while we visited “The Farm”. They say back then I had a crush on Denny – but I can’t remember since I was only 4 yrs old! As time went on I’d see Denny every so often when we’d come up to Canada to see the old property and visit relatives. Once my dad purchased our old farm back, I the got the opportunity to get to know Denny and Lydia. What fabulous people they are. What incredible friends you’ve been to my Dad & Jackie as well as my brothers and myself. Denny, you will be truly missed – I don’t think the farm will ever be the same for me again. In John 14:2 Jesus says that he goes to prepare a mansion for us. I take hope in knowing that I will see Dennis again. I truly hope that I can then be his neighbor. Blessings to you Lydia. Much love, Lisa Burmann
Condolence From: Kelly (Parr) King
I am writing with great sadness from Bloomington, Indiana. Dennis Ducharme was a man who lived large. He was a person that everyone loved to to be with. I had the honor of knowing Denny/Mr. Ducharme as a teacher, a basketball and track coach, and as a family friend. Denny personified the work hard/play hard mentality. He was a gifted leader who inspired his students, teams and community to accomplish great feats. As a tribute to Denny we should all continue to carry the torch of his zest for life and generous spirit to help others. Denny, we will all greatly miss your contagious smile and laugh.
Condolence From: Rick and Cheryl LeBlanc, and sons Rick & Jeff Son of Jackie and Chuck)
Dear Lydia and Family: Please accept our most sincere condolences. We came to know Denny only about a decade or so ago, but what an impression he made on us! That engaging and contagious smile, the warm heart, and the unconditional friendship Denny extended was such a joy to those he knew and to those who would soon become his friends. If you were a friend of Denny’s, your own friends were also welcome in his life. We count ourselves as fortunate to have been in his company. I remember the first time I met Denny. It was during a visit to see Mom (Jackie) and Chuck (Papineau), and this fellow introduced himself to me. We talked briefly, and every time we saw each other after that date, it was like seeing a lifelong friend. Denny sure had a way of making everyone feel comfortable, and we were beneficiaries of his kindness. During Denny’s extended illness, he still took time to share his love, his compassion and his friendship with others. Last year, when mom was in the hospital in the U.S., the “Canadian Contingent,” including (of course) Denny and Lydia, made the trip to the States just to say “Hi” to a friend and to offer support. To say Mom was both surprised and delighted would be an understatement. What great friends! We will remember Denny Ducharme with extraordinary fondness. His early departure from this great Earth is a tragic loss to all of us. God Bless his soul. Rick, Cheryl, Rick & Jeff LeBlanc (Westland, Michigan)
Condolence From: Annette and Bernie Denomme
Lydia,Marianne,and Rosemary Its with tearfilled eyes that we are extending our sympathy, to you Lydia, his wife, Marianne and Rosemary his sisters, for the great loss of a husband and brother. Whats the saying “That only the good die young”. Indeed in this case it is so true. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time, he certainly will be missed by so many. HUGS.. Annette and Bernie
Condolence From: Phil Heil
I also was shocked by the news of Dennis’ passing. He attempted to teach me French back in the 80’s and I still can’t speak a word. However, it was not for a lack of him trying. He is one of those few teachers you remember long after high school because they loved what they did. That stays with you. Years later, I rented a house on the lake when I was first married that Dennis had lived in for a long time and we were able to catch up. He was as warm and funny then as ever. Good teachers are hard to find, great ones almost impossible. Vous serez beaucoup manques, Monsieur Ducharme.
Condolence From: Dave Miehl
My deepest sympathies go out to the entire Ducharme family. I was completely shocked and saddened to hear the news of the passing of Mr. Ducharme. It’s hard to comprehend how a teacher from high school could have such a profound influence on a person’s life — without ever actually having him as a teacher. I can honestly say that Mr. Ducharme was the only teacher in my educational career that I occasionally went out for breakfast with… just to chat. Rob Pare and I formed a real bond with him and I will always fondly remember those times.
Condolence From: Tom & Jean Miller
Lydia and family, You probably will not recognize the name, but I am the lady from Windsor that calls you every year to order your apple butter and buy at least 3 of your apple pies. Our sympathy goes to you and your family in your time of loss. I will always remember Dennis for his compassion to please and his little practical jokes when I would come to pick up my order. May God give you the stength and courage you need today and always. Tom & Jean Miller Windsor, Ontario
Condolence From: Paul Hungler and Sarah Pardy
Dear Lydia Dennis was an amazing man who was a mentor and friend to so many of us. As a teacher he taught me a 2nd language, as a tour guide he showed me that there was a vast world to explore and as a friend he was always there for me. I feel grateful to have known him and will never forget his wonderful laugh, amazing smile and inspiring words. Thinking of you Paul and Sarah
Condolence From: MOZART & JULIE GELINAS
To the Ducharme Family Please accept our sincere condolences. Mozart and Julie Gelinas
Condolence From: Pelee Island Winery
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss…our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Walter Schmoranz and the staff at Pelee Island Winery
Condolence From: Cindy and Jim Cottrell (Chuck and Jackie\
Condolence: Lydia – When my mom and Chuck said that they were coming home to visit Denny, it was a very sad moment. For I knew that the time was nearing forcing many to say goodbye to a giving and wonderful man. Now that time has come and Lydia I am sure he is watching you and protecting you from heaven as all angels do. He made such a difference in so many lives. My triplets keep saying things about Denny that amaze me. They remember getting to hold brand new baby kittens that were born in your barn, picking apples from your orchard, having Denny help them pick up pumpkins that they wanted that were way to big for them, however, he wanted them to have the one special pumpkin that they picked. They remember going on many tractor rides in the corn fields and sharing many meals at the farm house. I only wish I could thank him for giving my children such wonderful memories that they will charrish all their lives. Our prayers are with you Lydia as we say goodbye to a wonderful loving man. Cindy and Jim Cottrell and Nick, Michael, Molly and Sean
Condolence From: Amy Boughazale (Verhoeven)
Dear Lydia and Family, First and foremost my sincere condolences to you all. You truly have lost a one of a kind. I am a former student and basketball player that had the priviledge of having Mr. Ducharme for a teacher and coach. He truly made my, and so many others, high school experience so much more than just the hallways of K.D.H.S. He taught so many of us that learning happens everywhere, not just in the classroom. The thing I think I will remember most will be his big smile and his infectious laugh. Our community should not be sad for his passing, but grateful for his presence! Merci, Mr. Ducharme for all you have done for your K.D.H.S family. May you rest in peace.
Sincerely, Amy Boughazale (Verhoeven)
Condolence From: Jackie and Chuck Papineau
Dear Lydia and Family, Chuck and I are so very sorry to hear of your loss.There are no words to describe this giant of a man.Dennis has touched so many of our lives and will always be remembered by all. His teachings,affilation with various clubs and his tireless efforts in the preservation and retention of his beloved St. Peters Church at St. Josephs. On a personal note,I have always thought of Dennis as a BIG brother rather than a friend.I’ve loved and respected him since the first time we met. Both Chuck and I will miss him greatly.I know that he will still be watching over all of us from a better place.May he rest in peace.We love you Dennis and good by my friend.
Condolence From: Christyn Cianfarani
I cannot think of my high school years at KDHS without thinking of Mr. Ducharme. In fact, I cannot think of the hallways at KDHS without thinking about Mr. Ducharme making fun of Mr. Cecile, or the gang of them trying to think of another crazy experience to unleash upon the ladies basketball team to give us a bit of culture and some excitement. I am comforted by the fact that I am certain that there must be a huge party going on in the afterlife as all of the cohorts join up with each other once again. Mr. Ducharme left us with the legacy that you can be an adult and have respect and responsibilities, but live as fully and freely as a kid – a quiet lesson that I am ever grateful to have been given.
Condolence From: Mandi Fratarcangeli (Mulcaster)
I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family of Mr.Ducharme. He was by far the most inspirational teacher that I ever had the pleasure of having! When I was in grade 12 at Kingsville high, he sacrificed his free period for me, so that I could acquire my grade 12 french credit and graduate with the rest of the 1994 graduates! He was completely selfless and patient and kind. He will be forever remembered as an extremely amazing man! Please know that my thoughts and my prayers are with all of you during this time of saddness! With deep sympathy;
Mandi Fratarcangeli
Condolence From: Joyce Rau
To the Ducharme family, wish I could be there to pay my respect.But my prayers and thoughts are with you all.Dennis was a wonderful man .
Condolence From: Marianne Stevens
Lydia and family, It was such a sad day when such a great man was lost. My fond memories of Mr. Ducharme have, and will, continue to remain close to my heart. His generosity and kind spirit will always be remembered. With loving prayers, Marianne Stevens
Condolence From: Dianne Jeffrey
Dear Lydia and members of Dennis’s family, my sincerest sympathy to you all with the passing of Dennis. He was a terrific person and I know he will be terribly missed by everyone that had the pleasure to know him. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. He has joined many loved ones and will be watching over you always. May knowing that he is at peace now, help you through the days to come. Sincerely Dianne Jeffrey and Family
Condolence From: Robert A Prince
My thoughts and my prayers are with Lydia and the family. They don’t come any better than Dennis. Dennis had qualities that others could only hope to emulate. Dennis had such a burning desire to assist anyone and everyone. It seems like a lifetime ago that he was helping either in a crawl space to a roof (the cost of sharing a house together). We cruised the warm climates as well as competed in racketball. I am a better person because of Dennis having touched my life. Thanks Dennis.
Condolence From: Paul and Khristine Johnson
Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. We were very saddened to hear the news today. We both have great memories of Mr. Ducharme as he was a great part of our high school lives. Whether it was on the basketball court, in French class, or anywhere in the world (Quebec, Europe,San Francisco or Bingos all over Essex County) Dennis would always be there to help with a great big smile. Thanks for so many great experiences. We’ll remember them always. Paul and Khristine Johnson KDHS 1992
Condolence From: Peri Henderson
Condolence: I have many happy memories of Mr. Ducharme as former student of Kingsville High School. He was my french teacher and my basketball coach. He is a big part of some of my best memories of high school including the many basketball tournaments to Windsor, London, and Waterloo. He is also responsible for my first plane trip when we went to San Francisco in 1990 to play some exhibition basketball in this great city. I have fabulous memories from my grade 12 French trip to Quebec City which wouldn’t have happened without him. He was an excellent teacher, and coach. I am so sad to hear that he died from this terrible disease called Cancer in the prime of his retirement. I just wanted to let you know that Mr. Ducharme holds a special place in my memories and I am just one of many former students and basketball players that he had amazingly positive impact on during our time at KDHS. Sincerely, Peri Henderson KHDS Alumni 1991
Condolence From: Sara Ward-Wick
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. Ducharme was such an inspiring teacher and he will be missed by many.
Condolence From: Stephanie & Greg LeGood
Our memories are running wild at this moment as we learned of Mr.Ducharmes passing. We have so many I could write forever. Greg and I are both Kingsville High School graduates and had many great moments with Mr.Ducharme. My Husband had the chance to travel to Europe with Mr. Ducharme and still talks about it today. It was a trip he knows he never would have gone on had it not been for all the hard work of Mr. Ducharme and a few other great teachers. I have many memories that involve him as a great coach and teacher. I had the opportunity to travel to Quebec with him for a Gr.12 french club trip and to St.Louis for a girls basketball trip. Both these trips come flooding back with memories of all the great years with a great man. We will never forget Mr. Ducharme and will still honk as we drive by the orchard on our way to Bayfield. I am glad we have stopped in over the years and had the chance to keep in touch. Our kids know Mr. Ducharme was our favourite teacher… “the man that gives them apples” and remind us 3 blocks away to honk. We will miss him but will always have the memories that made us into the adults we are today. So cheers to you Mr.Ducharme and your time and impact on our lives will never be forgotten. We love you Mr.D!!! Greg, Stephanie, Makayla and Issac LeGood
Condolence From: Helen Clark
I am so very sorry for your loss. Dennis and I worked together at Kingsville High School and he was an awesome man who loved life! He is no longer in pain and is smiling down on us from above. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Condolence From: Mark Usher
Dennis was a fine man who touched many lives. We all though so highly of him. He will be missed. My best to his loved ones in this their time of mourning.
Condolence From: Krista Galbraith
To the Ducharme Family: Mr. Ducharme was a wonderful teacher. I will never forget his passion for teaching, and for inspiring his students to be active in sports, clubs, etc. I went to Europe with him as part of his “Europe Club” and to date, it was one of the best trips of my life. Mr. Ducharme will remain in my memories as one of the best teachers I had during my time at KDHS. He will be deeply missed.
Condolence From: Sergio and Denise Braga
Lydia and family, We are so deeply saddened to hear of the passing of such a wonderful person-who touched our lives as a teacher, neighbour and friend. It is not very often that a student has the pleasure of getting to know their teacher not just as a valued role model, but also as a friend. We have many fond memories of you and Dennis that we will always cherish. Although he has passed, all the wonderful memories will live on, and he will continue to be an inspiration to many. With our deepest condolences, Sergio, Denise, and Ethan Braga
Condolence From: Kelli Laubscher
Dear Lydia and family, Although we only had the pleasure of meeting Denny a few times, he left a very large impact on all of us. Billy has very fond memories of the off road rides through the orchard with Denny and the guys. From what I can tell he had a very lasting memory on everyone he came into contact with. He most surely is looking down from heaven feeling your pain but wanting you to go on with your life. May God bless all of you. Kelli, Bill and Billy Laubscher
Condolence From: Paul & Jean Mason
Dear Lydia & Family So sorry to hear about the passing of our dear friend Dennis. We are really going to miss this very special person. He touched so many hearts and lives with his wonderful personality and helpful ways and his generosity to all. We are happy to have been fortunate enough for Dennis to have touched our lives. God now has a very special angel to watch over all of us. All our love, Paul & Jean
Condolence From: Nicholas, Nathan & Jacob Regier
What I remember the most about Uncle Denny is that he was always smiling and happy. He always welcomed us and let us pick apples at the farm. Every year we looked forward to thanksgiving because we got to see our cousins and Uncle Denny and Aunt Lydia took us all on a wagon ride through the orchard and then we each got to pick our own pumpkin and we got to pick apples. We will miss you Uncle Denny. Thank you for the memories. We love you. Nicholas(age 11), Nathan(age 9) & Jacob Regier(age 5).
Condolence From: Brenda Kucharski (Johnson)
To Mr. Ducharme’s Family & Friends, You go through this life but once and hope to meet someone as special and caring as Mr. Ducharme. He was the best! My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. (KDHS Grad/75)
Condolence From: Romina Ciotoli
Monsieur!You will be so sadly missed. I am very greatful for the conversation we had on the phone only a short while ago. You inspired me to keep up my fight! It was mostly due to your zest for life and generosity that my highschool years were as great as they were..I’m sorry for the times I gave you a hard time on the court due to my “italian temper”( you always teased me about that but I knew it drove you crazy!)What a great man! I feel so fortunate for having had you for a teacher and a coach
Condolence From: Jim McIntyre and Bonnie Brown
Lydia and family, The world is not as good a place as it was a few days ago with Dennis upon it. Please find strength in the many friends you have made as well as your time together at the orchard and travelling. This wonderful man will be surely missed by many friends as well as students. Dennis remains a “special” teacher as well as friend! Sincerest sympathy, Jim McIntyre and Bonnie Brown
Condolence From: John and Linda Green
Dear Lydia and Family: It is with a sad heart that we send our condolences on Dennis’ passing. I am sure he is watching over you from a better place . Both Linda and I have a great many fond memories of the many years we spent working and playing with Dennis at KDHS. He will be fondly missed . Our prayers are with you at this time. John and Linda Green
Condolence From: Kristy (Malott) and Ron Jadischke
When we think back to our high school days, they certainly wouldn’t be complete without Mr.Ducharme there. From the time we set foot in K.D.H.S it was clear that this man was there for the right reasons and that we were a part of something amazing. I’ll never forget the b-ball tournaments, making crazy videos for his french classes, or our trip to New Orleans, just to name a few. High school days were some of the best times and he played a huge part in making it just that for us. You will be missed “Monsieur”…Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in the many days to come. Ron and Kristy (Malott) Jadischke
Condolence From: don mcknight&tori schutz
lydia,our hearts go out to you ,dennis was a great man,our condolences.don& tori
Condolence From: Marilyn Jeffrey
Lydia, Rosie, MaryAnn and families I was so sorry to hear of Dennis’s passing. I have had you in my prayers and thoughts. He was an awesome person and wonderful cousin. He always was smiling and laughing and when you were in his company you could not help but have a good time. I was reading all the tributes to him and was so proud to have had him as a cousin and a friend.
Condolence From: Mallory Wood
Dear Lydia and family, I’m very sorry for your loss. Mr. Ducharme was a wonderful teacher and coach and made the halls of KDHS much better simply with a flash of his warm smile. He will be missed greatly, but never stop celebrating the joys he brought to everyone he met! Wish you and yours all the best through this time. Sincerely, Mallory
Condolence From: Kristen Gibner (Crain)
Dear Lydia & family My heart goes out to you and your family for your lost. When I first found out all the memories came flooding back! As I look at his picture all I can remember is that smile and when he use to tell me to be quiet in class, he never did stop smiling and laughing. He was the one teacher that actually listened to you and helped you when you needed it! I had the pleasure of going to Quebec for my grade twelve french trip ( that is an adventure I will never forget! ) and to St. Louis with the girls basketball team. ( No, I didn’t play he felt sorry for me because I was tall but had no, I mean no coronation. Yes I was the water girl and loved every moment of it. ) With that all I have to say is this wonderful man was inspiration to me and he will be greatly missed! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! Cheers! Kristen Gibner
Condolence From: Steve & Melodie Northey
Dear Lydia, Know that we are thinking of you and your family even though we cannot be with you at this time. We are so sorry for your loss. Denny was a very special man who we are very proud to have known and called our friend. You are in our thoughts and prayers, Steve and Melodie Northey
Condolence From: Martha ans Ken Mungar
Dear Lydia and family, We will always remember Denny’s zest and love for life. Sorry we can’t be with you at this time. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love Ken and Martha
Condolence From: Megan Stainer
Mr. Ducharme was a wonderful teacher and a terrific man. He is the reason I have my daughter in French Immersion today. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you today.
Condolence From: Ellen & Whitey Rau
Dear Lydia and family: On behalf of my family, please accept our heartfelt and sincerest sympathies for your great loss. The passing of Dennis leaves a big hole in the community, and for many it can never be filled. He was indeed everyone’s friend. We pray that your family will be blessed by Our Lord and, through memories of him, you will find strength to endure this difficult time. Rest assured that Dennis is now with Him and will help all of us by his heavenly presence.
Condolence From: Ed and Debbie Meidinger
Lydia our deepest sympathy.Dennis was such a great person and will be greatly missed by our family.The memories of our times together will always be held close to our hearts.Our 21 hyw family of friends will always remember him for all the fun times and help he gave us.
Condolence From: Jenna, and Natalie Lockhart
My Uncle Denny was one of the happiest people i knew. He always made sure that you felt loved and treasured in his heart. He had such a passion for life that you couldnt help but catch on to. My Uncle always had pop in the house and would give us some when our parents werent looking. We found out later that he would tell them before hand. He also taught me to drive the golf cart for the first time and it didnt matter how many times i crashed he still kept smiling and tell em to try again. I loved going to his house and spending time with either out in the orchard or just sitting in his house. I love you Uncle Denny you will be missed greatly in our hearts Jenna Lockhart You are a loving and Kind person. I will miss you Natalie Lockhart
Condolence From: Jennifer McInnis (Andres)
My sincere condolences to Mr. Ducharme’s family and friends. I was so saddened to hear of his illness and passing. Mr. Ducharme was my OAC French Teacher and chaperone on the Quebec trip, which today is still THE BEST memory of mine from high school. Mr. Ducharme and Mr. Speirs came to my brother Steve’s funeral visitation in January 2000 and I was so touched by this gesture that it brought me to tears then as it has today. You are all very much in our thoughts in the days to come. With sympathy, Jennifer McInnis (Andres)and family Denis and Brenda Andres Jennifer Jackson (Krey) and family
Condolence From: Michele Burger (Gerstheimer)
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dennis and wish to express my sincerest sympathies to his family. I have many fond memories during my time at Kingsville District High School because of Dennis, and the type of teacher and coach that he was. He was a wonderful teacher and mentor. It was because of teachers like Dennis that I too pursued teaching and coaching. My condolences to the family on the loss of a wonderful man. Sincerely, Michele Burger (graduate 1984)
Condolence From: Ron and Dianne Ducharme
To Lydia and family. To Marianne and Rose and families. Ron and I send our heartfelt sympathy to all. Dennis was a all around great person. He will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. Ron and Dianne Ducharme
Condolence From: Derek Masse
Dear Lydia and Family, my thoughts and my prayers are with you. Dennis was a great person and im so glad he gave me the chance to work at the orchard the last 3 years. he taught me everything from driving a tractor to working a rotary phone. i’ll always remember Dennis.
Condolence From: Don &Alice Masse
Dear Lydia &Family. Ducharme Family. You are in our thoughts &Prayers at this difficult time. We send our most heartfelt sympathies to all of you. Don &Alice Masse
Condolence From: Danny & Karen Masse & family
May we offer our deepest sympathies to the family of Dennis Ducharme. Dennis was a wonderful person. He had such a big heart and was a dear friend to the Masse family. He will be sadly missed by everyone. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.
Condolence From: Isidore and Paula LaPorte
Dear Lydia and family Please know that our prayers and thoughts are with you….as they have been for a long time. As not only a cousin but a friend……Is has a lot of wonderful childhood memories with Dennis, and the Aunts and Uncles and Grandparents. He was fun loving and generous with his time,with his laughter and especially his kindness …and was the happiest he ever was once he met you. You completed him. He was a very special person, and we will always hold him in the highest regard. Deepest sympathy…….
Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you all at this difficult time. Dennis was a Wonderful Man,and is now enjoying His New Life in Paradise. Chuck & Tanya
Condolence: Our deepest sympathy to Lydia and family. Although we only knew Dennis for a short time, we have many fond memories that we will cherish.
Condolence: Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Condolence: our prayers are with you.
Condolence From: SUSAN RAU
I feel very fortunate to have known Dennis for so many years and know personally of his great kindness and generosity. His thoughtfulness and true caring will always be remembered. May he rest in peace. Susan Rau
Condolence: I’m so sorry to hear about Dennis’ passing. My condolences to his family. He’ll be in my thoughts and prayers.
Condolence: He was a wonderful man that we are so proud to have been friends with. His death has left a huge whole in our hearts and moreso in our community. We loved being around you both–our prayers are with you and your family Karen and Ray Mathonia
Wednesday November 30, -0001
Condolence From: Lindy Gardner (Brennan)
Condolence: Lydia, My deepest condolences to you and your family. My highschool memories are nothing but positive and Dennis had a huge impact on them…as a teacher, a coach and a family friend. His spirit will live on through the many many lives that he has touched. I write these words with tears of sadness but also with tears of gratefulness and hope, to have known such a great person and that someday my children may encounter the same privilege. My thoughts are with you, Lindy
Condolence: Dennis will be missed……he was such a gentleman, with a great sense of humour…..we could use more people like him in this crazy world
l
Dear Lydia & family – Our thoughts and prayers are with you. John & Barb