It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dennis Gary Thurier, age 64, on June 24, 2023 with his family by his side, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Dennis was born in Fort William on November 27, 1958 and lived there until he moved to the Candy Mountain area in 1993. He started working at Great Lakes paper mill out of high school where he put in 37 years before retiring as a superintendent in the finishing and shipping department. He loved everything about country living from cutting grass and firewood, volunteering on the Scoble fire department, and even having a hobby farm at one time. He worked hard at everything he did to provide a great life for his family.
Dennis was always the life of the party. He was known for his great sense of humour and his tough and stubborn exterior, but everyone knew he had a heart of gold and he always put his family first. Once he had his mind made up about something there was no changing it! He loved getting together with friends and family for the holidays, or any time he could do up one of his famous fish frys.
Dennis had a passion for the outdoors. He would spend summers on Lake Superior fishing for salmon as well as camping at Crystal Lake and Brightsands. Fall time was composed of an annual moose hunt and spending time in his deer stand or at the trap shack. In the winters he could be found at his ice fishing shack on Lac Des Mille Lacs. He guided many people to their first fish. He was so happy to pass on his knowledge of the outdoors and proud to share his passions, especially with his sons.
Dennis will be sadly missed and always remembered by his wife of 36 years, Sherry; sons Lundy (Domenica) and Jaret (Elizabeth); granddaughters Mila and Olivia; brother Larry (Linda); sisters Tricia, Dawn (John) and Darlene; brothers and sisters-in-law Jeff (Peggy), Allan (Anne) and Randy (Dorothy) Germain; as well as many nieces, and nephews.
He was predeceased by his father Kenneth, mother Eileen, father and mother-in-law Steve and Mary Germain and sister Linda.
Dennis’ family would like to thank the countless staff members at TBRHSC who provided care and compassion for him throughout his illness with special thanks to Dr. Faghi, Dr. Leferrier, Dr. Simpson, Dr. Anthes, Carol and Johanna; he may have not always showed it, but he was very thankful for all you did for him over the years, as are we.
As he wished, a Celebration of Life will take place at Dennis’ home on Friday, July 7, at 4:00 pm following a small private service. Wear something casual, comfortable, and/or camo.
Should friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Neebing Fire Rescue Association through their website www.neebingfirerescueassociation.com.
