DENNIS PATRICK MCKINLEY May 31, 1950 - May 24, 2009 Dennis was born in Cold Lake, Alberta, son of Patrick & Alma McKinley. He had one older brother, Larry, and one younger brother, Gerald and younger sister, Mary. Dennis grew up mostly in the US between San Francisco and Portland, but maintained close ties to Canada. He married his wife of 37 years, Leslie, in Vancouver on February 4, 1972. They lived briefly in San Francisco and then returned to Canada, ending up in Kamloops by 1978. Dennis was a hard worker, known for his strong commitment to his family, his quick wit, and joking nature. He loved cars and was a member of the local car club. Dennis was the heart of his family, offering advice and assistance to his children whenever needed. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2002 and lived with the disease keeping alive his hope and that of his family while he battled his disease quietly but with determination. On May 24, 2009, Dennis lost his battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully, in the presence of his closest family. He will be forever missed and loved by all of us. We truly did lose one of the best. Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Leslie, children Seanna (Clint) Proulx, Paul (Sarah) McKinley, Ian (Katrina) McKinley, mother Alma McKinley, grandchildren Brittany, Jacob, Kyle, Chloe, Meah and Rowan and by his brother Larry (Mary) McKinley and sister Mary McKinley as well as numerous other cousins, nieces, nephews, family members and friends. He was pre-deceased by brother Gerry McKinley and father Patrick McKinley. Prayers will be recited at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2009 at Sacred Heart Cathedral, 255 Nicola Street. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 29, 2009 at Sacred Heart Cathedral with burial to follow at Hillside Cemetery. Reverend Father Derrick Cameron, Celebrant. The family welcomes friends and family to join them in celebration of Dennis' life at an open house at 388 McGill Road following the burial on Friday afternoon. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice in Dennis' honour, in lieu of flowers. Kamloops Funeral Home 250-554-2577 Condolences may be emailed to the family from http://www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com