Obituary of Denny Loy Williamson

March 19, 1939 - Crossfield, Alberta

January 16, 2024 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Denny Williamson, loving partner to Audrey Robillard for 38 years, and beloved dad to Denise (Niecy), Wendy, and Kelly. Denny passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at the age of 84 years, with his family surrounding him in love while sharing stories.

Denny was born in Crossfield, AB, on March 19, 1939, to James and Kathleen Williamson, and grew up in Dogpound, AB, on the family farm. He was the youngest of six loving brothers and sisters. The Williamsons had strong family values and exemplary work ethics. Denny lost his mother when he was six years old and felt her loss deeply all through his life. He attended a one room schoolhouse in Dogpound, and later, Westbrook School.

Denny married his first wife, June Williamson, in 1960 and had three daughters together. Audrey Robillard became his devoted partner in 1985, residing in Cochrane in a beautiful home on the golf course for most of their years together.

Denny left home as a very young man and began working as a truck driver. After he married June, they moved to Calgary, AB, and he started driving for Don Dunphy, a treasured family friend. Denny had an extremely strong work ethic and created his own trucking company. After many years on the road, he decided to change career paths and studied electronics. He then created a successful business in both Calgary and Cochrane, called Denny’s Electronics. His sense of integrity, genuineness, and quality workmanship contributed to his success.

Denny was able to retire at 55 years of age, after many years of hard work. He and Audrey enjoyed over 25 years wintering in Arizona and developed many wonderful friendships, while golfing and enjoying the sunshine.

During the summer months, Denny golfed at Water Valley and Cochrane Golf Courses with lifelong friends and developed many new enduring friendships. The last few winters, he enjoyed curling. He was also a collector of car models, of which he proudly displayed.

Denny was very proud of his grandchildren and loved watching them play baseball, ringette, dance, piano, and share in their passions and accomplishments. He was thrilled to become a great-grandpa (Papa) a little over three years ago.

Besides his loving partner Audrey, Denny is survived by his “favourite” daughters, Denise, Wendy, and Kelly of Calgary, AB; his grandchildren, Chelsea Nimmo (Michael Badek), Meghan Nimmo, Phoebe Williamson-Ykema, Macarthy, Hayden, and Grayson Galvin; two great-grandchildren, Joseph and Emma Badek, all of Calgary, AB. Denny is also survived by his sister Corrine Leask, brother-in-law Jim Backs, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many wonderful friends.

Denny was predeceased by parents, Kathleen and Jim Williamson; stepmother Gladys Williamson, infant brother Russell Denbow, brothers, Nelson and Bob; sisters, Anita and Alta; brothers-in-law, Slim Leask and Gordon Wood; and sister-in-law Faye.

We would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and palliative care team on Unit 83 Rocky View General Hospital for the compassionate care they provided to Denny and family during his last days.

A Celebration of Denny’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Cochrane, 369 Railway Street, Cochrane, AB) on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Denny’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation, 28 Oki Drive NW, Calgary, AB T3B 6A8, Telephone: (403)955-8818, www.childrenshospital.ab.ca.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Denny ’s family here.

In living memory of Denny Williamson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Cochrane, 369 Railway Street, Cochrane, AB T4C 2E2, Telephone: 403-932-4740.

Click here to view the service folder for Denny Williamson

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