On the evening of January 15, 2021, Dennis passed away peacefully holding the hand of his beloved wife Hazel Young and in the company of his daughter Jennifer Mason and his brother Kim Young.
Dennis fought a courageous battle with cancer for many years. He was kind and brave; honest and tenacious; a fearsome opponent but a loyal friend. He was 73 years old.
COVID-19 restricted the number of visitors Dennis could have had while residing at the Foothills Country Hospice in Okotoks, Alberta — though it is indisputable that he would have had many more if not for the pandemic.
Besides Hazel, Dennis is survived by his son Steven Young and daughter-in-law Carla, his daughter Jennifer and son-in-law James and Dennis’ three grandchildren Mackenzie Mason, Jakob Mason and Bronwen Young whom he loved so much.
He is also survived by his loving family Ardyth Tait, Lynn and Glenn Watson, Kim and Sandra Young and Gordon and Jennifer Young.
As a parliamentary assistant to Garry Breitkreuz (MP for Yorkton-Melville), Dennis maintained strong convictions for uncovering the facts about firearms in Canada. He continued this effort in retirement as an independent researcher until his final days. His legacy lives on at dennisryoung.ca.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Dennis’ favourites include the Multiple Sclerosis Society, the Canadian Cancer Society and the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Special thanks to Dennis’ attending physicians and to the caring staff at the Foothills Country Hospice.
9 Comments
Dennis was full of life. We will miss his whistling around the house and his 4:00 PM Scrabble game.
Ardyth, Lynn and Glenn, Kim and Sandra, Gordon and Jennifer I am so sorry for your loss. Ardyth I am so happy that you made the really difficult decision to visit in the midst of Covid and had a special time with him, Hazel, his family, Kim, and Gordon. May happy memories bring comfort to all. Doreen McCrackin (Ardyth’s friend)
Dennis did everything with a zest for life. His dedication and commitment to his best friend and wife Hazel was incredible. Our Loss has left a big hole in our hearts. We will miss you everyday.
Dennis was one of a kind always joking and laughing he took after his father Art as other siblings do. He will be dearly missed. RIP..and my prayers our with his family and friends at this time of sorrow De
Dennis lived a life of love and dedication to his dear wife, Hazel, and their family. When remembering Dennis, there will be stories of hard work for the causes he held important but also tales of crazy, fun times they have had. Our condolences and love. We are thinking of you. Love Sandra and Peter
So hard to lose a sibling, father, grandfather friend or spouse may you all find comfort by remembering the good times, the love and the laughter for all who are grieving his loss.
Thoughts and prayers for everyone who are grieving the loss of Dennis, may you find comfort by remembering the good times, love and laughter you all shared RIP cousin.
I feel fortunate to have met Dennis early in my retirement first at Optimist Arena (how appropriate a place for Dennis to play), later on the trails in Griffith Woods then at numerous golf courses in and around Calgary. He was an amazing fellow I feel honoured to say was my friend. My condolences to Hazel, His family and his numerous friends. I will miss him.
I knew Dennis – “Speedy” – from hockey at Optimist arena. He was a good teammate and a tough foe – a real great guy. My condolences to Hazel and family and to Kim and family. I was quite impressed learning of his background.