Peacefully passed away at Amica Little Lake Retirement Home on Thursday November 30th, 2023 at the age of 71 with dear friends by his side. Predeceased by his parents Bill and Doris Denney. Survived by his brothers Don (Jan) and Ross (Sue), several nieces, nephews and cousins. Will be dearly missed by his adopted family Marjan and Murray Deller and their children Melissa, Miranda and Matthew who he was Uncle Rick to. Will also be missed by his long-time friends Linda and Bruce Baldwick and was Uncle Rick to their children Jenni and Dan. Richard will be missed by his many friends who he made worldwide, wherever he lived and visited.
Richard was born in Barrie, graduated from King Edward Public School and Barrie Central Collegiate. Richard played saxophone in the Barrie Collegiate Band and was band president 1970-1971. He was a 1974 graduate of University Guelph and Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto in 1978. Following graduation, he practised Dentistry in Barrie for several years. Always looking for new adventures, Richard became a Kontiki tour guide in Europe. Traveling was in his blood, and he had memorable trips to Egypt, Kenya, Peru and Australia. He returned to Toronto and did fill in Dental work for dentists away from their office. During the AIDS epidemic in the 80’s he became one of the few dentists who treated AIDS patients. While living in Toronto he became a prominent figure in the Gay community. A close friend said “Richard was an inspiration and fighter against all odds. He brought so much joy and laughter to life.
In January 1991 he was hit by a drunk driver and then run over by a city bus. He was paralyzed and doctors told him he would never walk again. With his determination and will power he fought to walk again, which he did. After his recovery he moved to Calgary where he started Toys for Tots Christmas drive.
Richard moved back to Barrie in 2013 to reconnect with friends and family.
Richard loved to party. When his friends get together there is always a Richard Denney story. Richard had the knack of making everyone feel special. He always had a compliment for everyone. During his last 2 years at Amica he was a bright light amongst the residents. Everyone who knew him including staff always enjoyed a talk with Richard. They all said he was a special person. We thank all the staff at Amica for making his last years special. Also thank you Dr. Boushy for all your care and compassion.
In keeping with Richard’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be planned in the future. Memorial donations may be made to either Hospice Simcoe Barrie or Casey House Hospice in Toronto and are greatly appreciated by the family. Online condolences and memories may be left at www.steckleygooderham.com.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou
Richard never said goodbye, he said Chow