Denis Broughton St. Denis

Denis Broughton St. Denis

May 21, 1929 – December 29, 2022

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the man who was our husband, father, grandfather and uncle.

The eldest of 3 children, Denis was born in Nelson, BC and grew up on Salt Spring Island. He always loved the outdoors and throughout his life spent most of his time outside, whether he was working or playing.

Denis loved to read and write, and after graduation he was accepted to UBC for journalism, although opted to work instead. He helped survey the Alaska Highway, delivered ice in Edmonton with a horse and buggy, and worked on the oil rigs. He found his true calling however, when he moved back to the west coast and assumed his role in building a successful contract logging operation,  from the ground up. When the desire to spend more time with his growing family pulled him from the forest, he turned his hand to farming.

When Denis was 19, he met the love of his life, Joan McDonald. Denis and Joan were married in 1959 and spent the next 63 years growing their family. They raised 6 children, and welcomed 7 grandchildren, in a home that was filled with love, laughter and the beautiful chaos of a big family. Denis was always happiest when surrounded by family.

Denis was a man of deep faith who was very involved in his church and the community. He will be greatly missed by: his wife, Joan; children Tony, Anna (Giovanni), Jack (Kay), Rick, Nicole (Mike); and grandchildren Robert, Giulio, Michelle, Sabastien, Jelena, Isabella and Nicholas. He is predeceased by his daughter, Michele and sister, Anna.

Prayer Vigil will be held on Tuesday, January 10th at 5:30 pm at St. Mary's Catholic Church - 1135 4th Ave, Ladysmith

A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 am on Wed. Jan 11th at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ladysmith, followed by a reception in the church hall and burial at the Chemainus Cemetery.

Live stream for the Prayer Vigil and Funeral Service: https://www.youtube.com/@allsaintscatholicparish6729/streams

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to the charity of your choice.