Michael Scott Denis

Michael Scott Denis
January 26, 1956 - February 9, 2023

Michael “Mike” Denis passed away unexpectedly due to a medical incident while riding his bike on the trails around his house in Spruce Grove, Alberta. 

Michael is predeceased by his grandmother Etta Nolan, brother Robbie Denis, parents Al and Marian Denis, father and mother-in-law Ken and Jane Unland, brothers-in-law Jon Cairns and Phil Unland, sister-in-law Maureen Unland, aunt Shirley Balderston, and his uncle, Wayne Nolan. 

He is survived by his wife Lorna Denis of 45 years, daughter Bailey (Cody) Lyzenga, son Sheldon (Chantell) Denis, grandchildren Adalyn & Graham Denis and Aurora & baby-to-come Lyzenga, sisters Shaunna Denis and Paula Cairns, brothers-in-law Dale (Ella) Unland and Walter (Fern) Unland, sister-in-law Linda (Derrill) Fiveland, aunt Gloria Nolan, uncle Ken Balderston, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

Michael was a man who believed if he could help, he would, with no expectation of acknowledgment or thanks. He was the neighbourhood snowblower, always out within hours of a snowfall, clearing snow off all the sidewalks on his block. 

Meticulous in everything he did, he was never satisfied with building or fixing something just “good enough”. He found joy in figuring out how things worked and then finding a way to improve upon it. 

Working with his hands was a passion for Michael. He loved to plan out projects and bring them to fruition, spending time and energy to ensure it was perfect. His home in Medicine Hat is a testament to his labour. Whether it was cutting an eighth of an inch off 3000 bricks in order to build a backyard oasis, or turning a dirt basement into a bright and accessible space, he poured himself into that house. 

Michael explored multiple interests and hobbies throughout his life. He was a fan of classic rock and Broadway musicals and enjoyed attending live concerts and theatre events as well as being an active backstage member with Pumpjack Players during his time in Whitecourt.  He enjoyed baseball, Formula One racing, surprising family with gifts and experiences, and anything Tigger related. 

With a laugh that was unmistakably his, Michael appreciated dry humour and wit. He had no use for mincing words and if you didn’t want to know the truth, you didn’t ask him a question.

Michael persevered through all of the pain in his life with grit and transparency.  He found joy and peace in the love and pride he had for his family.  He loved us more than we could know and more than he could show.  

A memorial service will be held at Baker Funeral Chapel in Wetaskiwin on Friday, February 17th at 1:30 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, you may donate in Michael’s memory to Support Mental Health Fund (Unite for Change). 

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