Photo courtesy of Ed Nixon
Dennis Allister Latham died on February 6, 2021 at the age of 80 in Victoria, BC. He would often say he had had a good life but still he didn’t want to leave his wife Barbara of 54 years, whom he adored, or his beloved children Allison (Los Angeles) and Warren (Toronto). He loved his grandchildren Eric, Nate, Calandre, Sullivan and Bronwyn and marvelled at their different talents (they did all eventually figure out that despite his enduring quote “I’m Johnny Cash” that he wasn’t). Playing the euphonium was his life-long love starting from when his mother signed him up for the Moose Jaw Junior Band when he was 10 years old. He could have been “the greatest there ever was” (The Natural) but as he would say, “a pizza can feed a family of four but a musician can’t” so he became a lawyer where he built a successful practice based on his trustworthiness and intelligence. He believed in education – a lot of it – getting his Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from the University of Saskatchewan and his MBA and his LLB from Queen’s University. He was not known for sugarcoating the truth and was willing to ask direct questions, making sure conversations with him were never boring and certainly never about the weather. He read voraciously, knew everything about baseball there was to know, enjoyed managing his stock portfolio and was always ready to watch his favourite movies again.
He valued his extended family, friends and community and appreciated the love and kindness he received especially in his later years, including from Brian Sagar, Jennifer Wells and their kids Cohen and Marlowe who he thought of as family. He has left an empty seat at the table and we will forever miss him.
Due to COVID19, no memorial will be held. In memory of Dennis, donations may be made to support young musicians at UVIC through the Eugene Dowling Scholarship Fund: https://extrweb.uvic.ca/eugene-dowling-scholarship
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
-
Gautam Srivastava
-
Paul Beauchesne I first met Dennis more than 30 years ago when I began studying music at UVic. He was a good friend to my teacher, Eugene Dowling, and a frequent presence at any School of Music events that involved tubas and euphoniums, including the annual Tuba Christmas. Since returning to Victoria I have been fortunate to call Dennis a friend myself, as he has continued with his passion for music and his curiosity into the human condition. His advice and encouragement has been invaluable to me as I endeavor to keep the sweet sound of the euphoniums and tubas resonating throughout this community he cared so much about. Dennis was a larger than life personality. He will be greatly missed by many people but he will never be forgotten as he has touched so many lives. My heartfelt condolences to Barb, Allison, Warren, and all the extended family.
-
Warren Latham It’s Spring…..I thought you would be here to see it
I knew you were dying but I thought there was more time
I miss you in the every day and every minute of every day.
Pitchers and catchers have reported Dad…..I wish you were here to talk to about it
Andie got into an arts program…you would be so proud
My boys whom you loved so fiercely are smart and kind.
.
What stocks are you thinking about?…..I’m so glad we did a months end togetherShould we watch Bang the Drum slowly one more time?
I could never have asked for more love or support from a man who grew up without his own father
I trusted in him in everyway, with every thing even until the last day
Kindness, generosity and love was what he gave me in return
My Dad said I love you in different ways…..and I never could have said it enough
“Do you need any money ?”
“How are you feeling”
“What did you do today”.
“Are u sleeping enough”
“Should I make you spaghetti sauce?”
“Let me look at your portfolio”
“Let’s play catch “
“ Are you alright?”
“What can I do?”
“Are you keeping safe?”
“Did you see what the Giants did?”Everyone of them meant I love you….I always knew they did.
I heard you every time Dad
I love you too, forever
W
-
Marilyn Taylor My friend, Dennis, was an extraordinary person. He had his own unique ‘track’ — always searching for or joyfully having found something better. While he recently described his practice of the law as one-third law, one-third psychology, and one-third social work, I know him as a consummate learner and teacher or mentor. One thing that was “better” was the euphonium. Always preparing and performing, he also loved to teach about it. I learned that the euphonium has the sweetest sound among in the brass section and he taught me to listen for and hear that “sweet” sound. I learned that the instrument is somewhat rare, often sadly replaced by ubiquitous tuba, and featured more frequently in the British band tradition than the American tradition. In a very special moment I recall the profound sense of fulfillment that accompanied Dennis’ commentary about his experience mentoring (he didn’t call it that) young euphonia players and especially, during Covid socially distanced on the Latham deck, Jason, the young man who went on to play with the Central Canadian Military Band. The meaning of mentoring for Dennis almost matched his love for and delight in his own children and grandchildren. So, a man who tried out two distinctive professions with credentials, engineering and business, before deciding on law, I knew Dennis as a learner and teacher at heart. Will never listen to a band or an orchestra again with out looking for a euphonium and thinking of my friend, Dennis. And I will think of you, Barb, Allison and Warren and kids who were so fortunate to have had such a passionate, loving, and unique husband, Dad, and Grandpa.
-
John French I first met Dennis at the University of Victoria in the mid 70’s. He subsequently came to me for basic advice on playing his Euphonium. I got to know him quite well during this time and was impressed by his passion for his music. Over the years since, he contributed an enormous amount of time and energy to the music scene in Victoria. He was associated with the Conservatory of Music and helped young Euphonium players on their musical journeys. He was instrumental in forming the Symphonic Winds 2000 which was a high level wind ensemble dedicated to playing traditional and modern Wind Band music. Dennis played in many different ensembles and was well known in the music scene. I had the pleasure of playing in some of the ensembles in which Dennis played and was always impressed by his professional approach to his musical scores. We remained friends over the years, and participated in many interesting and satisfying lunch gatherings. There are givers and takers in this world and Dennis was always a giver. He not only gave of his musical talents but also helped many musicians with their real estate legalities upon moving to Victoria. He was a fine gentleman and a good friend. I will miss him. R.I.P Dennis.
-
Fred Christie and Marilyn Dixon Barb, Allison, Warren and families;
Dennis was a warm and wonderful person. Garth, thanks to Connie, has just forwarded Chapter 8 of Den’s memoires. It provided memories of our times together – all too few. He was a warm, considerate, thoughtful person – who always made each visit a great experience. Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time.
-
Brian Sagar, Jennifer Wells and Cohen & Marlowe Sagar Dennis had been a part of our lives for a very long time. Conversations around the kitchen table were standard, Dennis imparting advice, telling us of the book he had just read or movies we should watch. We would talk about current events and he would tell us stories from his past. He always wanted to know what we were up to and why we were doing it – he wanted the best for us. And he almost always sent us home with some of his amazing spaghetti sauce.
One of our last visits with Dennis was Christmas Eve in the Latham carport. Snuggled up in blankets, drinking cocoa and eating cookies. Cohen played the guitar and Marlowe tried to play the harmonica. A wonderful evening of laughter and love. Dennis will be greatly missed.
-
Warren Garbutt Dennis was a long time true friend. He was best man at my wedding and I was best man at his wedding. We first met in the early 50’s as members of the newly formed Moose Jaw Junior Band. Dennis initially played the trumpet as did I, however after a short period he switched to the euphonium, which he continued to play all of his life. A mutual friend from the band, David Hopkins, decided to form a small dance orchestra. We were very young but the “Downbeaters Orchestra” was born. Dennis played the string base, I played the piano (although my main instrument was the trumpet), David played clarinet and saxophone and my father played the drums. We were to continue very successfully for about four years, playing at school dances and at the local Airforce base, the home of the Snowbirds.
Dennis, David and I all attended the “Music for Youth” summer music camp in Vermont, USA. We attended for about 3 years, in the summer months from July through August. There we came in contact with famous musicians and conductors such as Edwin Franco Goldman and Leona May Smith. These were wonderful experiences to share with Dennis through those early years of my life. I look back with much joy when I think about the times we spent together sharing that great musical experience.
Dennis will be sadly missed by his family and everyone who knew him.
-
Pat and Grethe Floyd Dear Barb, Allison. Warren and families
We have cherished our friendship with Barb and Dennis ever since they moved to Victoria, and Pat in particular will miss his many discussions (even debates) with Dennis as to the greatest baseball games ever, the the most influential composer of western music (Beethoven or JS Bach?), or the most effective political leader in Canadian history. Dennis led us to a full appreciation of the horn ensemble, and the euphonium in particular. We will always think of Dennis whenever we hear the sound of a euphonium. Above all, we remember Dennis’ love of his family.
-
Vanessa Gratton Barb, Alison and Warren, I am saddened to hear of the passing of your husband and father. Although I haven’t known Dennis in my adult years, I have fond memories from my childhood of his kindness and gentle nature. My thoughts are with you and I am deeply sorry for your great loss.
-
Connie Wigmore My sister Barb, and Dennis, and Warren and Allison, were, and are, my dear family.
Dennis wasn’t out of high school before he was a family name at the Wigmore’s. At that time, he and his friends led the Moose Jaw Band for a season when the band lost their conductor. On weekends, he played in a dance band. He attracted attention and respect.
Dennis and Barb kept reconnecting, and eventually joined together permanently.
In about 1970, I remember visiting Barb and Dennis in North Vancouver when they were a newly-married couple. They were into their young professional lives by then, and I was in university. That night, my friend and I sat in their pink and avocado kitchen, and they asked us about “our generation” world views, hippies, and the level of intellectual discourse on campus. Dennis and Barb didn’t express opinions so much as they wanted to know what we were thinking. It was thrilling.
That evening has stayed with me. I was fortunate to often experience their curiosity and laughter over many years. The sound track to these memories is the sweet sound of Dennis’s euphonium floating up from the family room.
-
Waltraud Henderson Dear Barb, Allison and Warren,
Warm condolences to you and the family.Dennis was a good friend to all my family. I will miss his kindness and smile. He’ll be missed going to the theatre, musical performances, bridge and visits at the kitchen table.
He’ll be missed.Love, Waltraud
-
Barb Bundon I was lucky to have known Dennis my whole life. Dennis was a kind and thoughtful friend who gave honest, but respectful, advice. Whenever I dropped by to see Barb and Dennis, Dennis often already had company. He would be sharing his interest in music with a young member of his band community. Dennis’s knowledge of music, baseball, investing, and politics allowed him to connect with a large and diverse group of people, and included many young friends. Like many of Dennis’s friends, I was given a book from his library. I actually took two, a biography of Johnson and one of Truman. I will miss the fact that I will not be able have a conversation about these books with him. My prayers go out to Barb, Allison, and Warren at this time.
-
Myrna Cobb Dear Barb, Allison, Warren and families,
I am so saddened by your loss. I have such fond memories of Dennis and our visits. He was always so welcoming and interested; and eager to give wise advice for a good and secure life. I loved his unique sense of humour (which I didn’t always get, but he would help me out), his directness, his intellect and his loving devotion to his family. He was a good man, your Dennis. I will miss him.
With love,
Myrna
-
Kecia Kerr Dear Barb and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Dennis’s passing. He was such a wonderful, intelligent, curious and interesting man. It is very true that a conservation with him was never boring. He loved to make people think and I appreciated that about him. Barb, I’m sending you so much love and huge hugs in this difficult time. Wish I could come and sit in the garden with you and reminisce about Dennis.
-
Clare Christie Wonderful reading, Barb. Tears in my eyes.
I trust you’ve received my card.
Lovely to hear that Connie is joining you.
I’ve been waiting to call you until Allison’s visit was over. Now I’ll wait until the end of Connie’s visit.
You’ve been in my thoughts.
“Stay safe and be kind” (t-shirt)
xo, Clare
-
Paulyne Vining Dear Barb: I am so sorry to read of the loss of your beloved husband, Dennis – such sadness for you, your large family and your many friends. Thank goodness for all the many wonderful memories you have to look back on.
Love and hugs.
Paulyne
-
Nate Latham My grandfather and I were good friends. I talked to him frequently over FaceTime where we discussed politics, current events, the stock market and sports. We would watch his favorite movies like “How Green Was My Valley”, or talk about the books we had read such as “The Boys In The Boat”. Grandpa Dennis was like a mentor to me, over the countless hours we talked I absorbed many lessons that ranged from how to calculate interest, to how to live a fulfilling life. Grandpa Dennis was always a good listener, I would always share my triumphs and mistakes with him. He was always there when I needed advice. Although there are still things I want to talk to him about, I think the knowledge I’ve gained from him will nourish me for the rest of my life.
Love Nate.
-
Philip & Carol Winterbottom Dear Barbara and Family,
I was extremely saddened reading of Dennis’s passing and wish to add my and Carol’s condolences to you all.
I was Dennis’s accountant for over 30 years. As a person, he was down to earth, friendly, humourous and had an enormous intellect, always ready with a pithy comment which woud initially baffle me but on reflection, I would realize he was right on target. But he wasn’t one-sided as his great love of music,cigars and beer indicate.
As a lawyer, Dennis was knowlegable, wise, direct, never afraid to ask the difficult questions but most importantly be completely honest, trustworth and ethical.
With sadness.
Phil & Carol Winterbottom
-
Rob Pazdro Dear Barb, Allison & Warren,
Like all your family and friends, I am writing to express my sadness and empathy for your loss of much-loved Dennis. I don’t think that writing about someone so recently departed is easy for anyone, so I did what Barb would have done and did my research! I read all the kind words of others and was truly moved by them. One theme I realized when I read tributes from musicians from the Moose Jaw Junior Band and classmates from USask was, “a friend with Den was a friend for life”. What a marvel alone that is!
Someone else made me laugh when they wrote that Dennis could be summed up in “cigars, euphonium and beer”. So true. I would only add “and family” as they meant so much to Den and Barb has always been his true love and partner.
I have two favourite memories of being with Den and Barb. The first one must have been in the winter of 2008 in Toronto. I swear it was the coldest night of the year, but we met for dinner on the Danforth. I was so excited as my true love, Glen, had just come for a visit from South Africa and I could introduce Barb and Den to him. We were the only people in the restaurant- it may have been freezing, but the atmosphere inside was filled with warmth. We talked and laughed for hours with, of course, Den interjecting a few probing questions about life in South Africa.
The other is the occasion of Den and Barb’s 50th anniversary luncheon in Toronto. Glen and I were so happy to be invited! Again, surrounded by friends and family, the room was full of love and good food and, like Barb and Den, unpretentious and sincere. It brings tears to my eyes to remember that lovely gathering.
And now, dear Lathams, carry on with love and strength without your favourite euphonium player.
Much love,
Rob & Glen
Johannesburg, South Africa
-
Cyril Labman Barb and Family
My sincere condolences.
-
Gail and Patrick Boulger We were so sad to learn of Dennis’ death. He is one of our longest standing friends with whom we were still in touch and we’ll miss him greatly, in all sorts of little ways.
It was always wonderful running into Dennis in the grocery store, at a restaurant or at bridge and never knowing what the topic of conversation was going to be. He made me think more deeply and wonder why more often. A talented, caring man and I’m sorry to see him go. Much love to all of you.
Patrick and Gail
-
Ilnytzky family Dennis was our family lawyer for many years. Over time as we got to know him better he became more than a professional advising us and providing legal services but he became more like a trusted friend ready to help any way he could. He often asked pointed questions which sometimes made me squirm but he always had the best interest of our family in mind. As my children became adults they too engaged him as their lawyer and grew to appreciated his candour and wit.
Our sincerest condolences to the entire family, he was a great guy. He will be missed by all who had the good fortune to meet him.
-
Jocelyn I always appreciated his sense of humour and the way he spoke about baseball. The passion and understanding of the players as individuals was something I could relate to. He would always ask questions about what was going on in my life and I appreciated that. I think is comment after our wedding was one of my favourites! Uncle Dennis will definitely be missed!
-
Arnold Lim I remember well how kind and supportive he was to my wife and I when we first opened Koreangardens, how he and Barb supported our small business when we were struggling and needed it most. He and Barb even passed us a card with a $50 bill when he discovered Su Mei and I were getting married in 2003, long before he knew us well. How he spoke to me about how he loved and sacrificed some of his passions so he could provide a better life for his children Warren and Alison was inspiring. He even pulled me aside once and a while and let me know it when he thought I could be doing better, as difficult as it was to hear, I am very grateful for it today. His guidance, his friendship and his actions which always spoke louder than words. Thank you Dennis for your example, I will endeavour to be half the man you were.
-
Spenser I am very sorry about Grandpa Dennis’ passing.
We used to attend Tuba Christmas often to see him play, and he was always happy to perform on the stage. Whenever we visited, he would always be practicing the euphonium, an instrument that I would never have known without him. He is someone that you could never forget, and I will always hold him close to my heart.Spenser
-
Alana & Susan Grandpa Dennis was someone with an immense presence. He never failed to impress me with his quick wit and deep intelligence. Some of my dearest memories of him are from when we played cards together. I don’t remember winning even once when he joined the table. There was much more I wished to learn from him, but I’ll always cherish the memories we’ve made. Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole family.
-
Chris Robb Becky and I wanted to write to pass along our deepest condolences for your loss. We were so sorry to hear about Dennis’ passing. We hope that you, Warren and Allison are doing ok in this very tough time.
I am not sure if you knew this, but when I first started practice law after passing the bar admissions course, Dennis offered to provide lunchtime lessons on practical legal skills to Eric (my roommate from law school) and I. We would meet Dennis for lunch at a restaurant on Yates and he would come prepared with materials for that days lessons. He even had tabbed binders prepared for us, so that we could insert his latest precedents and reference material. As we were just at the beginnings of our careers, t kind of mentorship was incredibly valuable. It was so generous of Dennis to share his time and knowledge with us. I spoke with Eric to let him know of Dennis’ passing and he asked that I pass on his condolences as well.In thinking about Dennis, the movie ‘Bang the Drum Slowly’ came to mind. I am not sure if it was a favourite of his or whether it was just his love of anything and everything baseball that drew him to the movie, but I remember him talking about it on a number of occasions. I think that it is time that I find it and watch it.
Again, I am so sorry for your loss. All the best to you are your family.
Chris Robb
-
Ethel Kaiser (Phillips) Dear Barbara,
I am so sorry to hear of Dennis’ passing. He and I went to Prince Arthur School. When we finished grade four, Dennis, another student, whom I don’t remember, and I were moved directly into grade six. We got the reputation of being ‘smart’, but we ended up being a year younger than the rest of our CCI graduating class.
Even though we haven’t been in contact since the CCI reunion , I am so glad that you connected and passed on the news of his passing.
It is so nice that your family has been able to be with you. Travelling is so difficult right now.
Ethel
-
Fred Wigmore We all have memories of Dennis.
His conversation opener “Are you happy?” “Hi,I’m Dennis Latham, I’m your brother in law “ “ Have you got your things in order” “You’ve got a nice place here”. “ you are lucky to live in MJ” “Should I buy some beer?”. I loved watching Dennis drink beer. Sip sip sip then sip sip sip. Most people quaff beers. Not Dennis. It could be 90 degrees….sip sip sip. He could have been employed in at least three areas: Law, music and plumber. He had the qualifications for all. Just and knowledgeable; talented and melodious; the pant line and bum!
Those that aren’t forgotten are never lost.
Sip sip sip. Fred
-
Jackie Dorgan Dear Barb and Family – I was saddened to hear of the news regarding your very special Dennis . I knew Dennis and thoroughly enjoyed his company , through the fact that we were both in the Legal Profession and that we shared a Saskatchewan background . I recall clearly his lively conversation and that sparkling twinkle in his eye . We talked of a number of things , especially family .He often spoke of you Barb and of your children and( as time went by) , the grandchildren with clear devotion and genuine affection .He was so proud of all of you . Once I left practice for the bench I saw Dennis less frequently ( my loss ) as it seems he never found himself in court ( for any reason )! And after he retired from practice I recall once chatting with him at an intermission at a concert at Alex Goulden where he was playing with a group . It was a lovely interlude .
My condolences to you ; he was a good man .
-
Charlie DePape We so enjoyed Dennis’ open-air concerts from over the hedges. Sincere condolences from the DePape family.
-
Mark Ward I knew Dennis as a fellow little league coach, personal lawyer and good friend. Simply put, Dennis was brilliant. I’ve told many friends of mine about this amazing man who once was 5 minutes into a serious business discussion with me then suddenly shifted for another 5 to a casual Q & A about baseball then shifted back to the exact spot he left in the first place. RIP my friend.
-
Paul Hammer Franklin Hammer , Paul Hammer, Neighbours of Dennis and Barbara Latham, would like to pass on our condolences to Barbara and the Latham family, on the passing of Dennis.
We will miss the playing of Dennis and his tuba musical melodies, that we enjoyed listening to, on summer evenings.
-
Stephen Lustig Although Dennis practiced law in the building next to my own office, I really got to know him as a member of our book club. He had a unique system for rating books and asked the most interesting questions to our group. We had our first book club meeting without Dennis tonight. We reminisced about him and offered a toast. My heartfelt condolences to his family. We will all miss him.
-
Kitty Turney Allison, Barb and Warren,
I was sadden to hear the news of Dennis’s passing. My heart goes out to you during this painful time. My Love and Prayers go out to you and your family.
-
Christa Kunuk To Barb & Family,
We were very sorry to hear of your loss. WE are thinking of you all and sending our condolences, Dennis will be missed.
-
Evan Blake Dear Barbara and family:
Kay and I were deeply saddened to hear of Dennis’ passing. Dennis will be deeply missed. He was a most unique character, intellectually curious in the extreme and, above, a man of unfailing integrity.
Please know that we are thinking of you at this sad time.
Evan Blake
PS We will be making a donation to the Dowling Scholarship Fund. Seems wonderfully appropriate in the circumstances.
-
Coleen Adams Barbara, so sorry for your loss of Dennis. It was lovely to see you both at the bridge club. Dennis always had a smile and time to stop and talk. My condolences to you and your family.
-
Andrew Turney Barb, Allison and Warren,
My thoughts are with you all during the difficult time and I so wish we could be there with you to grieve together. Dennis was an integral part of our family and I will be forever grateful for the love and attention he lavished on his grandkids (and the patience he showed his son-in-law!). Over the past (almost) 20 years, I have grown to have tremendous respect for Dennis as a father, a husband and a person — his integrity, generosity and authenticity. I enjoyed his company immensely and especially our many conversations on law, music and investing and various sundry things. I will miss his sage counsel and friendship and his humor but mostly just miss him. I find solace in the great music that Dennis has exposed me to which is now inextricably linked with him. I smile as I hear it — thinking about him (“76 trombones led the big parade, with 110 cornets close at hand…” and, of course, a euphonium).
Love, Drew
-
Carol Molyski We are so very sorry to learn of Dennis’ passing. He will be sorely missed. We have many wonderful memories of time spent with Dennis.
Carol & Paul Molyski
-
Bronwyn I am very sad by the loss of Dennis. But I will always have my thoughts and memories of a wonderful grandpa. From mini golf, to going to Palm Desert on those perfect sunny days. As we walk along by the golf course on the way to those perfectly clear pools. As we walk along I am positive Dennis will be telling a joke. The joke probably is about a pizza and a musician. Those are some of the most wonderful memories I have ever had.
-
Sandra McConnell Barb, my condolences to you and your family on the loss of your beloved Dennis. I’m so sorry Covid has made a funeral and a gathering of your friends impossible at this time but know that you are in my thoughts. I know you have a close family and many good friends who will be finding ways to support you.
-
Sullivan Turney I really miss Dennis and I am saddened when I think about him. I have a lot of good memories of him. Whether it was mini golf, watching movies or baseball, or playing chess or just talking. I I feel really bad for Barb, Allison, and Warren. I offer my condolences. Things will never be the same without him.
-
Steve Christie and Shiona Mcintosh Barb and family our thoughts are with your during this difficult time. Cherish the memories. We are thinking of you
-
Dawn & Clarence Our heart felt condolences to Barb & Family! So sorry to hear Dennis has passed.
-
Wenda McArthur Dear Barb, and Allison, Warren, and your children: I am so very sorry for your loss. Dennis had a dear family and many communities. He will be very much missed by all. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
-
Gordon Banta Dennis was one of the founding members of our men’s book club in 2003. He brought a disciplined and well thought out contribution to all our discussions. He also gave us a different perspective on the books when he thought the discussion was in too much agreement. There was never a discussion that Dennis could not bring back to an analogy in baseball. However, he was never able to convince the group that we really should read more baseball books. Dennis will leave a great void in our group. We will miss his humour, insights, disciplined approach to evaluating the books but most of all his honesty. He called it as he saw it.
Gordon Banta
-
Gary Willison Dennis was a brilliant musician. Playing in the MooseJaw Junior Band with him was a joy. I had a great time with him attending a Bette Midler concert at the Cave in Vancouver back in the sixties. Barbara and he created a wonderful life together. Love and peace be with her and the family.
-
margaret stewardsom To Barb and family.
You have my deepest sympathy at the passing of Dennis. I remember you telling me of your love for Dennis almost at first sight. We were in the Band and I believe you said to me you were going to marry that man (15 yrs?).. And you did and were married to your soul mate and best friend for 54 yrs. Dennis was everything to you Barb .. He will be so missed by all that loved him and treasured him. I was always so thrilled to hear about how he kept up his playing his euphonium almost all of his life… He had such a gift with his skill at playing in bands etc. There will be a huge band ready for him to play in now… thinking of you all. Sending my love and support at this time and always.
-
Vicki Metcalfe Dear Barbara. Please accept my condolences. I always enjoyed Dennis’s wit and admired his attitude over the past few years. I’m among many who will miss him, but you most of all.
-
Ralph Stanbridge Ralph Stanbridge
To Barb and Family
So sorry to hear of the passing of Dennis. Gerda and I send you our deepest condolences, and wish you the strength to
endure this most trying of times.
Kindest thoughts, Ralph
-
Margaret Hummel Barb & Family
So very sorry to hear that Dennis has passed on.
Know that our heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with you.
He was one in a million, a very special guy.
Regards, Ray & Marge
-
John Colbourne Barb and family.
I am saddened by your loss. I knew Dennis to be hard working and intelligent and a man who loved to make music.
-
Kevin, Laura, Malcolm, Ella and Jacob Christie Much love to all of you from New Brunswick.
We are thinking of you all.
-
David McKillop Dear Barb and Family:
My sincere sympathy on the loss of a great husband and father. I am sure he is filling in the euphonium vacancy in the Heavenly orchestra. Having married into the “Atherton” line almost 50 years ago, I have been party to the family stories and connections, including Barb and Dennis, so that I feel I know them better than the actual time spent in their company would suggest. The loss of a partner and parent represents an end of an era in one’s own life; however, reflection upon the life well lived by Dennis and all the stored memories made on his travels through almost 81 years, will help sustain you all in the months and years ahead. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. David
-
Sue Duggan Barb and family
I am so sorry to learn about Dennis’ passing. A lifetime together with a loved one is never long enough. May your memories carry you through this difficult time. Keeping you in my heart.
-
Tim Dunford Dear Barbara, Warren, Allison and families, It’s with many fond memories of our years together that I offer sympathies on Dennis’ passing. Apart from his mentorship I so appreciated his integrity, lively mind, concern for others, and his commitment to you all. The anecdotes would fill a book, but some of my favourites occurred when he would sit down to visit with me in the office between clients, times we both enjoyed. Sandy and I send our condolences; Dennis was a presence always remembered.
-
Lloyd Morin Barb, my sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Lloyd
-
Hanna Bendtsen Dear Barbara,
Mike and I are so sorry to hear about your loss. We are thinking about you and your family during this difficult time and wish you the very best. We both have very fond memories of Dennis and will remember him with affection.
Hanna
-
Robert Stewardson Sorry to hear of your loss. Dennis was with me at music camp in Vermont when we were about 14. We were in CCI together and shared our passion for music.
Our sympathies,
Bob Stewardson
-
Judy Taylor Dear Barb and family,
Please accept our condolences and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ray & Judy (Patterson) Taylor
-
Hubert & Jean Hicks We are very sorry for your loss and send our sincere condolences to Barb, Allison, Warren and families.
-
Jan Turney Dear Barbara and family. I send my Love and deep felt sympathy to each of the Latham and Turney family’s. Hopefully your memories will help bring some moments of peace.
With much Love Jan Turney
-
Jan Turney Dear Barbara and family, bless you all as you move through this time of loss. I send my condolences and Love to each of you.
Jan Turney
-
Ray Bodnar Denny and I met at Freshman Calculus at the U of Sask in 1957 and have been friends ever since. We were part of a close knit group of Engineers from the 1961 class. We met frequently for reunions and shared “book club” suggestions. Sincerest condolences to Barb and the repost of the family. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Karen and Ray Bodnar
-
Patricia Turney We are thinking of the entire Latham Family during this difficult time. The ones we love are never gone; they live within our hearts. I know this is true of Dennis given his impact on so many friends and family. Sending our love!
-
Anne Massicotte To Barb, Allison, Warren and their families,
Our deepest sympathies to all of you. We will miss his humour, his love of music, and his
forwardness.
May Dennis’love for you keep you feeling cherished,
Sincerely,
Anne and Ed, Toronto
Anne and Ed, Toronto
-
Joan Morris Barb and family I’m sorry to hear of your loss of Dennis who played such a major role in your lives. My thoughts and feelings go out to you.
-
Jack petersen Barb, Allison,Warren and families,
We so appreciated Dennis for all of who he was . We will miss him too. Our and sympathy to all of you.
Fondly, Jack and Cheryl Petersen
-
Warren & Vicky Garbutt Dennis was one of our greatest friends dating back to the Moose Jaw Junior Band and Downbeater Dance Orchestra days of the 1950’s.
We have always admired his lifelong dedication to music and his beloved euphonium.
Barb and family, our hearts break for your loss and we will keep you in our prayers.
Love
Warren and Vicky
-
Liz and Mark Bunker We are sadden by this news and our hearts are heavy for you. We remember meeting Dennis in Victoria and his found his quick wit endearing. Barbara and Allison are in our thoughts and prayers.
-
Sharon Ireland Sincere condolences to Barb & Family! So sorry to hear Dennis died! May he rest in peace!
-
Patrick and Tara Wickett Our heart felt condolences to the Latham Family.
-
Mark Angelini My sincerest and heart-felt condolences to the entire Latham family. I had the distinct pleasure and honour of attending a few baseball games with Mr. Latham (Dennis) and his son, Warren. His knowledge about so many topics, extending far beyond baseball, was truly encyclopaedic and incredibly fascinating for me to absorb, if even just a modicum of his wisdom. He is a wonderful gentleman who will be greatly missed by everyone fortunate to have their life touched by him. During this very sorrowful time, I hope that we may all be able to take some solace in reflecting upon how he made all of our lives happier and more memorable by simply just knowing him! I offer my most solemn prayers to all of the Latham family.
Mr. Latham was my baseball coach 27 years ago. He held a spot in my heart always for the life advice he had given me back then so much so that I will pass that on to my kids someday. I will fondly remember Mr. Latham smoking cigars behind the dugout, and anytime I saw him really in and out of baseball. One thing Mr Latham did for me was point me in the right direction with my education. Baseball is missing from his obituary however I knew it held a big place in his heart and he was a volunteer locally for Victoria Baseball for many years.