It is with sadness that we announce Rodney Dennis Buck, known to all his friends and family as Dennis, died at Humber River Hospital on September 4th, at the age of 78, with his family and care team by his side.

Dennis was a husband and friend to Ann, a father to Kristy and Ian, and a recent grandfather to his granddog, Delilah. He was also a big brother to his siblings Cheryl, Daphne, Clayton and Philip and their families.

Dennis was born and raised in Saskatchewan, spending his early years in Mont Nebo, the eldest child of Leonard Walter Buck and Priscilla (Knight) Buck. He excelled at school, completing grade 7 and 8 in the same year, and graduated from Hudson Bay Composite at the age of 16 where his mother was a teacher. He then became an undergraduate at the University of Saskatoon where he studied mathematics (after deciding that the pain of drafting was enough to leave engineering behind). He received a scholarship to study education and soon began his teaching career in Kinistino, SK.

An ad in the Globe and Mail for a teaching job in Toronto caught his eye in 1967. He had a successful phone interview and drove to Toronto for the first time to begin a whole new chapter of his life at the age of 22.

Dennis taught math for most of his career at George Harvey C.I., as the head of the department for many years, in what was then the City of York and, later, at adult day school, while making many friends along the way.

He also had jobs working at the Prince Albert Herald, as a house painter, teaching driving and as a doorman in his early years.

His adventurous spirit led him to Europe, Mexico and Alaska in his 20s, travelling sometimes by plane and sometimes by station wagon or van, before starting a family. Summers were then spent golfing, going on road trips and spending time at Clevelands House in Muskoka with family and friends. He took up running later in life and was also a regular at the gym.

In his retirement, Dennis had plenty of time for curling, participating in bonspiels across the province (and winning the OCA Stick Provincial Curling Championship with his team in 2016), golfing and lawn bowling. He enjoyed the social aspect of the sports as much as the activities themselves. He kept his mind sharp with Sudokus (especially on puzzle Sundays), current affairs, documentaries, chatting over pints with friends and family and trying new things at all stages of his life.

Dennis was known for being private about his own life but always had an ear for someone he cared about. He loved music, telling jokes and going for walks in the park and along the Humber River. His company, his care and his wit will be missed by all who knew him.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. Dennis will be laid to rest at Park Lawn Cemetery in a private ceremony with family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Dennis Buck to the Toronto Rehab Cardiac Rehabilitation Program (UHN Foundation), the Toronto Star Children’s Charities (The Santa Claus Fund) or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Please visit UHNfoundation.ca/tribute or thestar.com/initiatives/santa-claus-fund/

Otherwise, Dennis would be glad to know you raised a glass in his honour.