Dennis Joseph Burdon-Murphy

On September 9, 2015, Dennis passed away peacefully after suffering a massive stroke. Two days in hospital surrounded by his family and a close friend brought closure to his life. The caring nurses and staff ensured he felt as little pain as possible. Although we are deeply grateful that he was granted relief from passing, words cannot even begin to describe the sense of loss we feel from his absence, nor encapsulate the love we feel for him and his memory.
Dennis led an extraordinary life filled with much accomplishment and adventure, but as he would often tell his daughter, Maihanna, "my greatest accomplishment is you." Although he would tell others he was "terrified" to become a father, it can honestly be said that the father he became was nothing short of exceptional. His absolute commitment and unconditional love was felt every day, and resulted in a deep connection that made father and daughter best friends. Dennis was, without a doubt, Maihanna's greatest teacher in life and he worked tirelessly to equip her with the life skills and tools necessary to flourish and succeed. Not a single lesson will be forgotten. Maihanna would not be the person she is today without his endless love and support, and for that she is eternally grateful. Maihanna will love and miss him every single day of her life.
Dennis's role as a teacher extended beyond fatherhood and into the lives of many others. In his primary career as a trauma therapist and body worker, he helped so many people overcome their personal challenges. Dennis was a gifted healer of body, mind, and spirit, and channelled this gift through his work with clients. His wisdom and intelligence were assets that benefited all of his interpersonal relationships. Prior to his life as a healer, he journeyed along a broad range of career paths that ran the gamut from top-ranking salesman for Litton Industries, to business owner in London, England, to professional dancer in Toronto, Canada.
Dennis was an avid traveller and chased adventure, whether it was driving through Africa or living amongst the indigenous peoples in Vanuatu, he was fearless in his quest to understand the world. Dennis was strong and sensitive, pragmatic and intuitive. He was a spiritual and philosophical man that loved to question and learn constantly. These attributes coupled with his feisty Irish blood, meant that he was often-and rightly-described as an 'intense' individual. Whether it was the close relationships with his sisters, or his ambition to write his memoirs, his level of caring and commitment to the important things in his life was unmatched.
Dennis was a remarkable man, cherished friend, beloved father and dear brother. He was a man with an ever-expanding circle of friends-from those he shared intimate relations with, to those who engaged him in political discussions and theatre reviews. He will be deeply missed by all his loved ones.
Not a day will go by that we will not think of him with love, nor hold his memory in our hearts.

Celebration of Life