June 1, 1950 – December 29, 2025
In loving memory of Robert Dennis “Denny” McCurdy, who passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025 at the Manitoulin Health Centre, Mindemoya, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter and the kind of presence that filled every room — or more often, the garage he was in. Born on Thursday, June 1, 1950, in Tillsonburg, Ontario, Denny built a life rooted in hard work, loyalty and a good dose of mischief. Denny was the proud father of his son Dennis (partner Deborah). He was “Pops” to his grandson Cade and the great-grandchildren who adored him — Stevy and Brantley. He is survived by his brother-in-law David and predeceased by his beloved sister Beverly, as well as his parents, Iva Bishop and Robert McCurdy. Denny is also survived by his cherished niece Sandra (Dave) and nephew Chris (Sarah). As a young man, Denny worked at his father’s sawmill before running his own pulp truck and spending long days in the bush. Later, he drove truck throughout southern Ontario. Though not born on Manitoulin Island, he became a proud Islander through and through. He was one of the first employees at Lafarge in Meldrum Bay, where he spent 35 years as a heavy equipment operator — a job he took pride in every single day until his retirement. Denny was known for his humour, his teasing nature, and that unmistakable Irish temper that ran strong through the McCurdy name. He loved old country music, old Fords, Ski Doos and Husqvarnas. In his later years, the garage became his favourite gathering place. He kept it warm all winter, ready for company to stop by for a visit, a coffee or a drink — and just in case a sled needed fixing. Local kids, his grandson and eventually his great-grandkids all knew him simply as Pops, a name that stuck because it fit him perfectly. A Celebration of Denny’s Life will be held in early June. His final resting place will be at First Nairn Cemetery in Ailsa Craig, where he will be laid to rest beside his sister and mother. Denny leaves behind a legacy of laughter, stories, and the kind of love that lingers long after the door to the garage has closed for the night. Please share your thoughts, memories and photos at www.simpsonfuneralhome.ca.
