WICKS, Edward Dennis

May 1, 1950 - November 16, 2020. On Monday, November 16th, Edward Dennis Wicks, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family at age 70 after a threeyear- long battle with cancer. Born to Aaron and Kaywicks on May 1, 1950, in Halifax, Dennis’ life was remarkable from the getgo. He contracted polio in early childhood and was quarantined in hospital for a year and a half. Through childhood, his six siblings - Betty (Eddie), Ruth (Ernie), Barb (Greg), Patsy (Gordon), Jim and Christine ( Ben), had his back - teaching him to play, and protecting him from further injury. With determination and hard work, Dennis became a champion swimmer, representing Canada in the 1968 Paralympics in Tel Aviv, Israel. In his 20s, Dennis fathered two children, Jeffrey and Jennifer. An attentive and caring Dad, he built the first family home on Lynville Drive, in Lower Sackville, with his bare hands. Ripe with an entrepreneurial spirit, Dennis delved in being an accountant, door-todoor salesman, car refinisher, taxi driver; a dry-cleaning business owner, real estate agent, landlord, bar owner, race car owner, and founder of the Ottawa West Poker Club. And, of course, he spent 29 years as a federal government employee at HRDC. Lady Luck accompanied Dennis throughout his life, bringing him fortune in friendships, life and love. Meeting Line Gauthier was one of those moments. Approaching a case of love at first sight, they were together from 2003. In his Miss Linny, Dennis found his soulmate and partner in crime. In March 2017, life came full circle with the birth of Dennis’ grandson, Aaron. He had the joy of experiencing the life cycle anew through Aaron, Jeff and Paige, providing overwhelming delight and fulfilment. Dennis’ resilience, paired with insurmountable joie de vivre, led him through the unpredictable journey of life. He is loved and will be missed by all who had the privilege to call him a friend. A special thanks to Dr. Lisa Cross and the many PSWS and RNS of the Bayshore Health Care team who helped us care for Dennis at home, Dr. Ong and Dr. Eapen and staff of the Irving Greenberg Family Cancer Centre, and The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre for their continued care and support. Details for memorial, condolences, tributes and donations can be found at: www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com