ROOKS, Dennis Wayne

March 4, 1952 — December 17, 2024

Dennis Rooks passed away peacefully at Kelowna General Hospital on December 17, 2024, at the age of 72, surrounded by family.  Dennis is survived by his wife of 46 years, Janet Rooks; his children, Shawn (Kristen) of Kelowna, BC, and Justin (Chelsey) of Saskatoon, SK; and his beloved grandchild, Mylah; as well as his sister Jeanette of Medicine Hat, AB; brothers Darrel of Athabasca, AB, and Clayton of Nanton, AB; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, George (d. 1998) and Ann (d. 1999), as well as his siblings Derwyn (d. 2017) and Shirley (d. 2022).

Born in Swan River, Manitoba in 1952, Dennis’ life was full of love for his family, sports, and adventure. He married the love of his life Janet in 1978 in Swan River, Manitoba, and in 1983, they relocated to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where they raised their two sons. Dennis worked for CN Rail, mostly as a conductor, from 1970 until his retirement in 2006.

An avid sportsman, Dennis loved playing hockey. Dennis was a great defenceman and teammate. Dennis especially hated taking penalties, not only because he was putting his team short a player, but also because that meant he had to sit in the penalty box and get less time on the ice. In the warmer months, he excelled as a fastball catcher. He loved his time on the ball field with friends who were his teammates. Dennis said sports really made a positive impact on his childhood. That’s why he liked to give back to youth sports via coaching and reffing when he grew into adulthood. Dennis was recognized with the annual Sportsman Award for his contribution to amateur sport in the Swan River Valley in 1983. He was especially proud of being the head coach of the 1982 Bantam Provincial Tier 2 champions Swan River Stampeders. He had an incredible memory, recalling vivid moments from games and coaching experiences that spanned over 60 years. Dennis continued to play slow-pitch, hockey and reffed hockey well into his forties. Dennis was a devoted father who cherished watching his sons participate in sports, often adjusting his work schedule to support them.

The family enjoyed many trips together, from camping and golfing around Saskatchewan’s lakes to unforgettable journeys to Disneyland, Maui, and even multiple train trips across Canada. One of his most cherished adventures took place in 2008, when he and his two sons took a two-week road trip from Saskatoon to Miami, attending NFL, NHL, and NBA games along the way—a memory he called the “trip of a lifetime.” Dennis and Janet enjoyed trips to Disneyworld, the Grand Canyon, California, and a Caribbean cruise.

In 2004, Dennis and Janet purchased a cabin at Candle Lake, Saskatchewan, and enjoyed many summers there.  With friends and family, they fished, quaded, golfed, and enjoyed water sports. They moved to Candle Lake full-time in 2014 where they enjoyed year round country living at the lake. In winter if Dennis wasn’t splitting firewood they would ice fish, snowmobile, walk, and cross-country ski in the winter wonderland.  Dennis loved bringing his friends and family together for memorable events like the Geezer Olympics and was known as the Games Master.  Many friends and family will remember the laughs and tears of joy that were shared. He brought this fun tradition to Arizona.

Dennis and Janet considered themselves very fortunate to spend many winters at Happy Trails Resort in Surprise, Arizona starting in 2011, where they enjoyed the sun and new friendships. They engaged in a variety of social activities including pickleball, shuffleboard, slow pitch, and golf. Dennis was actively involved in the community, volunteering in the local restaurant, directing shuffleboard tournaments, and assisting with pickleball events. Dennis also loved organizing family sports drafts and cheering for others, always putting others’ victories before his own. Even though it was difficult leaving long-time friends and family in Saskatchewan,  Dennis and Janet moved to Kelowna BC, in August 2022 for milder winters, where they enjoyed spending time with their eldest son Shawn.

Dennis was known for his warmth, generosity, and welcoming nature. He loved visiting with others and hearing their stories, always ready to lend a helping hand. His big, warm smile was a constant presence, and his kindness left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. Dennis will always be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his passion for sports, and his kindness to everyone he met. He leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and lasting bonds.

Dennis’ Celebration of Life will be held on SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025, at 3:00 PM, located at RCAF ASTRA HALL, 2407 Ave C North, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.  Immediately following the celebration, we will have refreshments and appetizers.

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