Dennis Lloyd Rinn

Our precious gardener has crossed the Rainbow Bridge, reunited with Ace, Tia, Duke and Butch. Left to mourn is Molly.

Dennis was born December 25th, 1943. He often remarked that he was the best Christmas present his mother ever received. Maybe he missed out on some presents, but he always got a birthday cake on Christmas Eve. His childhood was spent on the farm at Snowflake and with cousins from across the valley. It is one of the reasons that family was so very important to him.

Predeceased by his parents Alden and Kathleen, brothers-in-law Albert and Brian, brother Morley, Don, Jimmy and sister Reta, he is survived by his wife Lana, brother-in- law Clarke Burnett (Ruth), sister-in-law Enid Burnett, brothers Lyle (Sue), Bob (Rae) and sister Gladys Wymer. Also left to mourn are his beloved nieces and nephews: Charlene Currie (Mike), Karen Milljour (Brad), Michelle Large (Greg), Vicki Stechkewich (Paul), Tom Rinn (Kristen), Dennis Rinn (the younger), Carol Howard (Richard), Reg Sheen (Karen ), Shelley Jones (Mike), Tracy Derksen (Bill ), Royce Burnett (Glenda), Megan Burnett (Barry), Paul Burnett (Suji) and a whole slew of “great” nieces and nephews.

His accomplishments were varied: Free Press Trophy winner of the School Boys Bonspiel in 1960, Provincial Champion Juvenile baseball in 1961, President of the Fort Garry Teachers’ Association; awarded a life membership in the Association in the 80’s, trophy for best Garden in Fort Garry in the 90’s and Wednesday night Golf Champion.

His career in education spanned more than 30 years with stops in Red Lake and several schools in Fort Garry. Many Friday evening meals were spent debriefing with Lana, also a teacher. Their marriage of more that 56 years was based on love and respect. They were each other’s best friend.

After retirement in 1999, Dennis and Lana moved to an acreage near Carman and built their dream home. He planted over 1000 trees, established an orchard and cultivated three different garden patches.

His interests included hunting, New Years Eves, skiing and golfing but his true passion was gardening. His flower garden was a wonder to behold, and the veggie garden was spectacular. 2 lb tomatoes, 1 ½ lb peppers were plentiful. When challenged, he could provide proof. The happiest days of his life were spent working in the yard from early morning until dark with his dog supervising and helping??

We are grateful to live in a caring community with so many supportive friends and family, special thanks to Dale. Our gratitude to the wonderful staff, doctors and nurses at Carman Memorial Hospital. The care he received was exceptional and deeply appreciated. Thanks also to Dr. Kruk, Dr. Woelk and Craig at Doyles. Rest in Peace, Den.

Memorial donations may be made to the Pembina Valley Humane Society, or to the South Central Cancer Resource.

Private family interment will take place in the St. Mary, St. Alban Anglican Church Cemetery, Kaleida, Manitoba.  Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.