Today and always we remember Denise Wintle (nee Rivard) who lived 54 beautiful years.
Born to and survived by Gary and Laurette Rivard, Denise was the first of five children. Memories of her childhood live on through her family including Renee (Roger) Gould, Patrick (Carmelle) Rivard, Ed (Cherry) Rivard and Catherine (Byron) Teichroew. Favourite family stories include road trips to Florida, countless camping trips and Partridge family re-enactments. Denise learned early how to take care of her brothers and sisters, a responsibility she happily held herself to her entire life. She was always available for her siblings and supported them as they navigated life.
Denise met Garth Wintle in 1982 and they were married in 1985. Together they raised two beautiful, talented daughters: Sarah (Byron) and Michale (Taylor). They were her pride and joy and her face would light up with delight whenever she spoke of them. She and Garth built a wonderful life together and created a home that welcomed many. Friends and family enjoyed basement hot tubs, snacks on the patio while listening to Charlie Tuna and countless bowls of popcorn. Their relationship is a beautiful reminder of how marriage can work as a partnership and the importance of companionship through good times and bad.
She loved her work at the Dryden Regional Health Centre and the people around her. She held herself to a high standard and inspired a similar performance in her co-workers. She was in the middle of arranging for her retirement – after 26 years she was a veteran of the hospital’s finance department and proudly mentored her team. She knew she was leaving the department in good hands and always spoke highly of her colleagues.
Denise had a lot to teach about unconditional love. She loved without judgment and without abandon and was a loyal friend to many. Her daughters, nieces and nephews will always remember her unwavering support. She was a shoulder to cry on, a soldier in their defense and always had the advice needed to proceed. She extended this love to her special friends that were as close to her as family. The people she loved knew without a doubt their importance to her heart and their special place in her life.
When not hard at work or joking around with her co-workers, Denise was known to be passionate about her many hobbies. She loved to travel with Garth (her partner in crime). They took countless memorable trips together and their favourite mode of transportation was on two wheels. Family gatherings, book clubs and gardening at home were just another few things on her long list of beloved pass-times.
There was always room for laughter in time spent with Denise. She found fun and a reason to smile in every situation. Her positive outlook was infectious and many found themselves suddenly participating in some sort of costumed photo shoot, silly family tradition or spur of the moment adventure. She was game for any project, big or small, and would lend a hand without complaint. She loved any reason to get a group together and happily organized and hosted birthday parties, barbecues and family movie nights.
She will be dearly missed but never forgotten. Her spirit and legacy will live on through her loved ones.
A Memorial Funeral Service to celebrate Denise’s life will be held Friday, April 29th at 10 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church with Rev. Alan Campeau officiating.
If friends desire donations would be gratefully received in lieu of flowers to The Dryden Regional Health Center Equipment Fund online or through the Stevens Funeral Homes P.O. Box 412, Dryden ON P8N 2Z1. Condolences may be posted at www.stevensfuneralhomes.ca.
