Contributions to the tribute of Dennis Doyle Rollins

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Robert Munro posted a condolence

Friday, February 18, 2022

It is with sincere and deep sadness that I extend condolences to the family of my friend Dennis. Dennis willingly shared his time, energy and knowledge with many young basketball players. Not only did he teach strong fundamentals of the game but he taught many life lessons as well. I always looked forward to the start of another NCAA basketball season and would rely on a phone call to get caught up on the latest news and developments. Dennis always had sage insights and great one liners. His unwavering support for his Tarheels was rivalled only by his comments concerning his DOOK arch rivals. Dennis was an intensely private individual whose passion for his family was evident. Dennis is gone but will definitely not be forgotten.

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Steven (Sam)Latimer posted a condolence

Saturday, February 12, 2022

Dennis was my first boss @R&L sports he was a great guy we had a lot of fun at work my condolences to the family

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Leesa posted a condolence

Friday, February 11, 2022

One of my first memories of Dennis was when I was four or five years old. I walked over to the Rollins home from my home across the street and asked Dennis if his eldest son Peter could come out and play. Dennis flatly replied, “I don’t know. I’ll have to ask the boss.” Confused as to whom the “boss” might be, I informed Dennis, “In my family the dad is the boss.” Not sure what happened next but I doubt I saw Pete that day. Dennis and Sue’s daughter Julie, shares the same birthdate as me. Every year when our parents went to Mexico, the kids and grandkids, from both families, would join them. Julie and I celebrated our birthdays together and we all shared many excursions, meals and late night chats by the ocean. Every morning I would see Dennis wake up with the birds, go for his daily walk and then hit up the gym. He’d spend afternoons poolside fully involved in a book. He loved Pete, Darren, Julie and all their kids. Most of all he adored Sue. I loved hearing him call her Mother and watch him smile at her when she said a funny line. Their love will endure just like our wonderful memories will always hold a place in our hearts.

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Wendy Amini uploaded photo(s)

Friday, February 11, 2022

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It took me a bit of time to be able to write this. My sweet Uncle Den. So many wonderful memories of summers, vacations, Christmas's spent together growing up. So many laughs. Remembering his amazing sense of humor and quick wit. He would be crying with laughter every time we all had a family sit down and started reminiscing about our family shenanigans. He was smart, strong, caring and athletic. He loved his family dearly and I always felt at ease with him. Fun and kind always. Glad we got to make that trip to visit a few years back to see the wonderful Bay of Fundy cottage. So perfect. He was wonderful with everyone and all my girls adored him. He had a special connection with my Aryana on that trip and she was like his shadow and never left his side. He loved that she wanted to throw a ball and was interested in all he had to teach. We all have wonderful memories of Uncle Den. Sending our love to our sweet family, Auntie Sue, Jules, Pete, Darren and all the extended family and children. We are thinking of you all during this difficult time. It's so hard to grasp the enormity of such a loss. Sending love and healing to you all. Rest in peace Uncle Den. We love you and plan on keeping your memory alive with kindness, fun and laughter. xo

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Steve Weagle posted a condolence

Thursday, February 10, 2022

I'll never forget the first time I met Dennis, which is impressive since it was 50 years ago. Georgian Ct. Oshawa. A warm Summer day in the early 70s. I believe Neil Young was on the radio. I was 5 years old. Like some Stephen King movie gone wrong I had just taken a pair of lawn clippers to Peter's index finger. Peter was also 5. But a wiser 5. In a panic to save the finger I ran across the street to get help. Dennis was there. Just standing there but focused on me. I meekly looked up and admitted what I did to his son. Without expression he calmly asked 'Why would you do that?' I had no answer. I still don't. To our lifelong friends we feel your loss. But we are happy for the decades of great memories. You are our family. Condolences to all of you. Dennis will always be in our thoughts. Steve and Karen Weagle

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Ted Rafuse posted a condolence

Thursday, February 10, 2022

Hola Sue, Julie and Family: Susan and I were devastated to learn of Dennis' passing, which came as a totally unanticipated event, and we are still processing the shock. We were both greatly anticipating the renewal of our friendship this winter once again in the Yucatan. We are both back at San Bruno Villas and I am sitting at the table on the patio and looking towards the sandy beach and the palapa there. I can easily visualize Dennis trodding beneath the palapa and approaching casa 3 patio with a broad, beaming, happy smile on his face, eyes sparkling, proud of his vigorous walk along the beach from Wayak. On but a few occasions he travelled that distance with his best friend Julie. At the patio he/they would join Susan and I for many moments of lively discourse recounting events recent and past. Often those events were told with a profusion of laughter and humour and often at his own expense. We recall Dennis being a reluctant socializer in a large group. But we both think that reluctance was significantly diminished at our annual hot dog fiesta at Casa 3, San Bruno Villas. I vividly recall one occasion where he sat in a chair with his back to the half wall of casa 4, again with a happy face, relating to an assemblage of attentive admirers, as he related accounts of his activities, mostly centered upon his various basketball activities. And again, attributes of humour were the most often expressed utterance. We recall with fondness the meals enjoyed with both of you at Wayak, where we drove to, not a beach walk, for us. Much conversation about our experiences in the Yucatan and about family back home and of their various doings and accomplishments. Our focus there often tended towards our summertime cottage lives and experiences, his on a salt water bay, ours on a freshwater lake. We both recall low class, as opposed to high class, dining in Telchac Puerto at Tiburones and Villa del Mar restaurants -- this memory appears to focus on food and it's consumption! While he enjoyed the fruit from the sea, it was Sue who most amazed me with her fish morsel. To this day I have not witnessed another person enjoy every piece of flesh removed with great and anticipatory dexterity from the bones of their sea denizen. Wow! Every bite a relish. We both will miss Dennis as a friend and a Yucatan companion. Life here will lack his bouncy, lively, but quiet presence. With every glance towards the beach palapa there will flash a memory, perhaps fleeting, but nonetheless a memory, of Dennis in our minds. Adios Amigo, Susan & Ted Rafuse

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Chris Weagle posted a condolence

Thursday, February 10, 2022

The last time I saw Dennis, we had supper together at Julie and Glenn's. I hadn't seen either of them in such a long time, and Dad had been telling me about the intense workout sessions that Dennis and Julie had been doing in Mexico. He said Dennis was stoked because he'd finally gotten his bench-press to 315 pounds. At the time, I remember thinking Dad got his numbers all wrong because Dennis was 75 or so. But the second I shook his hand I knew it was true. I don't know how many men in their 70s can lift that much, but other than Dennis, I've never met another, and I bet not too many others have either. My deepest sympathy for the Rollins' and Leblancs, and for all those many whose lives Dennis touched. Dennis, you will be missed and remembered well. Here's to a life well-lived.

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Chester and Nancy Mullin posted a condolence

Tuesday, February 8, 2022

I look back on my friendship with Den with many great memories, too many to list. Our long friendship began in Toronto in 1965 when we both worked at a Shell service station. We became fast friends right away and Den became the friend I could call on anytime for anything. I loved him like a brother. We had many adventures over the years with motor bikes, snowmobiles and I must not forget Judo! In the 1970's we drove from Oshawa to North Bay Ontario to compete In the Northern Ontario Judo Championship. Our anxiety level was running quite high on the drive there and at one pointed said "I think we should get out and rough each other up to get ready for this thing." We stopped the car, got out and threw each other around for awhile thing there a long the highway. I'm not sure what passers by thought! When we arrived at our destination we learned it was an open tournament which meant it was open to all belts including black belts! We were lowly orange belts! This did not look good for us! Needless to say we did not win the tournament but we did alright. On our way home Den looked at me and said "Chet how many people do you know would drive 400 miles just to get beat up?" We had a great laugh about This over the years as well as many other incidents. Den and Sue were great friend to Nancy and me over the years and you will be dearly missed my friend. Removed his wife Sue and his three children Peter, Darrin and Julie. This is a major loss in their lives and our hearts and prayers are with them. Chester & Nancy Mullin

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Ryan Kilfoil uploaded photo(s)

Monday, February 7, 2022

I was deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Rollins' passing. I had the pleasure of playing on the '92 Blue Bears Provincial Championship team and learned so many lessons about basketball and life along the way. He was a terrific teacher and his passion for the game shone every time he stepped on the court. More important than teaching us young boys about how to play the game the right way, he taught us about hard work, integrity, teamwork and having fun. I think of Dennis often as I have coached my kids' teams over the years and try to impart the same values to them. If I'm doing half as good a job as Coach Rollins then I'm doing alright! I remember my first practice as a member of the Blue Bears, Mr. Rollins was laying out his expectations for his players and stressed the importance of being committed to the team. He let it be known the only excuse for missing practice was if you had to attend a wedding or a funeral, and it better be our own! Well, I guess you can finally miss a practice, Coach! I feel so fortunate to have been one of Dennis's players. He was a great man and had such a positive influence on so many impressionable young men. He truly made the world a better place and he will profoundly missed. My condolences to Sue and the rest of his family. Ryan Kilfoil

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Frank Allison posted a condolence

Monday, February 7, 2022

My favourite memory of Den goes way back to 1972. With him being an A1 mechanic he found me a secondhand car which I absolutely loved.Shortly after we had our family arrive for a visit.We piled them into my new car to head downtown to see the sights and sounds of Yonge Street. I was parked outside the Sam The Record Man store and a police car pulled up beside me with lights flashing, soon a second car arrived and blocked me in from the rear. They put me into the back of the cruiser to take me to the station. I asked about my family as I was the only driver.Don had a U.K licence but was too nervous to drive in Canada because it was too different and he didn’t think he could do it. The cop insisted that he had to drive to follow them to the station.He finally did it after 3 attempts and the closing of Yonge St in both directions I asked why I was here and what I was charged with they wouldn’t tell me anything. I got my phone call and called my brother in law who contacted a friend in the OPP to explain my problem. An hour later the police released me without apology or reason. I was thinking my ace mechanic Den had got me a stolen car. When I relayed the story to Den he nearly fell off his chair he was laughing so hard. It turned out that there was an error with the licence plate that was used in an armed robbery which explained the way I was treated by the police.Den you will be really missed and it was wonderful to read all the condolences from the people you have impacted in your lifetime. Rest In Peace .

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Shane Parker posted a condolence

Sunday, February 6, 2022

I cherished the Harry Miller years .. the 3 teams from 1993 - 1995 and all the opposition; Hartland, St. Stephen, River Hebert, Barnhill, George Street, Sussex, Albert Street, Forest Hills, Woodstock .. every weekend. Dennis dedicated a great deal to the program and he was the primary motivation in choosing basketball in 7th grade. As much as he gave to the community and the sport however, he had other tremendous legacies. I remember him sharing with me once how he had a goal of winning a game by "..something to nothing." Even if it was unattainable, it still was a captivating idea. It wasn't about ego, it was just about challenging yourself. It makes me very happy to know that so many loved Dennis. He had a special composition and my sincere condolences to Sue, family and friends. - Shane Parker

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Doreen and Keith posted a condolence

Sunday, February 6, 2022

We were heart broken to receive the sad news of Den’s passing. He was a man who loved and cared deeply for his family and also gave so much to so many. Our memories of Den will always make us smile and be grateful that we had the pleasure of knowing him and sharing many happy times together with him and Sue at their cottage, (aptly named “Come-by-Chance” ) overlooking the beautiful Bay of Fundy. Friends were always welcome to visit - sitting outside in a beautiful garden that Den made for his wife and best friend Sue. He then surrounded the garden with a little white picket fence. Such a picture perfect location to live and enjoy their surroundings. We will always cherish our times with Den and appreciate his woodworking skills (bird houses - his specialty). His quick wit, sense of humour and readings from his diary which held many interesting opinions. He was a wise and thoughtful man. We always looked forward with great anticipation as we drove down to see “our Sue “ and “ our Den”. One of our fondest memories of Den was watching performances of 1950s “Doo Wop” singers with their funky clothes (in particular The Orlons doing the “Wah Watsui”)”. Our tears of laughter ran down our cheeks - it was always fun at the cottage. We will miss him so much as he was a very big part of our lives and although our trips to the East Coast will never be the same, our hearts ♥️ will always be there at “Come-by-Chance”. Doreen and Keith

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Kim McTamney posted a condolence

Sunday, February 6, 2022

I will always remember Uncle Den’s affectionate “Geelz, Geelz, Geelz!” whenever all the girl cousins were together (usually up to no good). My family and I have many fond memories of our road trip to New Brunswick and staying with Auntie Sue & Uncle Den in their wonderful cottage. ❤️❤️ A truly wonderful human being, Uncle Den will be missed terribly. Sending so much love and huge hugs to Auntie Sue, Pete, Darren and Jules Love, Kimmy, Joey, Jess, Jamie & Liam XOXO

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John & Judy Meagher uploaded photo(s)

Sunday, February 6, 2022

Dear Sue & Family, We’re so sorry to hear of Dennis’s passing. Someone said “A good coach can change a game. A GREAT COACH can change a life.” Dennis did exactly that for so many young people. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. RIP COACH ROLLINS. -John & Judy Meagher, Stephen & Kyla

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Carol McNamee posted a condolence

Sunday, February 6, 2022

The McNamees have know the Rollins Family for many years having lived in the same neighborhood.Dennis was first and foremost a tremendous family man,a great husband, father and a friend to many.His contributions to basketball in the KV area cannot be overstated.The innumerable hours he devoted to the young of this area undoubtedly positively affected his players teaching them a lot more than winning.Our thoughts are with Sue and his Family.It was a pleasure to have been associated with him.Please accept our sincere condolences.Carol and Jim McNamee.

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Scott Mowry posted a condolence

Sunday, February 6, 2022

I’m very saddened to hear of Dennis’ passing. He had a profound influence on my life, as I’m sure is true of many of the players he coached. My sincere condolences to your family.

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Patrick Tucker posted a condolence

Sunday, February 6, 2022

So sad to hear of Dennis's passing. I have know Dennis since he played Basketball in high school at TVHS as my older brother would have played against him. I also knew Dennis from basket ball in this area from him coaching and i refereed, always a gentleman and was so involved with the sport to always be positive and encouraging the kids. I am sure he will be missed from all who new him and prayers and thoughts are with your family at this time.

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Terry and Nancy Kilfoil posted a condolence

Sunday, February 6, 2022

Nancy and I are sorry that Dennis has passed. Both of our boys were fortunate to have been coached by him in Basketball and he was loved and respected by all of his players. Dennis was a great role model for his players and he taught them so much more about life than simply how to play the game. An excellent coach and a true gentleman - he will be missed by all who knew him.

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Jules uploaded photo(s)

Sunday, February 6, 2022

My handsome dad as a young man. RIP my sweet Dad.

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Marilyn MacDonald posted a condolence

Saturday, February 5, 2022

So very sad to hear that Dennis passed. He was such a great story teller and over the years we could listen for hours.. This past October, in their lovely Chance Harbour hideaway, Den re-told the story of how he and Sue first met...truly the stuff that movies are made of! We shall miss his welcoming smile, his wry sense of humour and his huge heart. And those very tasty Caesars! Our sincere condolences. Marilyn & John, Vancouver

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Joan Reilander posted a condolence

Saturday, February 5, 2022

Our thoughts and prayers Sue and family They say people come into our lives for a reason a season or a life time. We got to know Dennis through our rental of the cottage in Pocologan. Our friendship developed over our yearly visits which has left us with so many fond memories of Dennis. He has touched our lives in unimaginable ways. We will hold him in our hearts Joan and Joan

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Mary Lou MacLellan posted a condolence

Saturday, February 5, 2022

Charlie and I were very sorry to hear of Dennis' passing. We had such great chats at the 'Storm-door Dinner Parties' in Chance Harbour where a lot of cherished memories were made. Our thoughts are with you, Sue, during these difficult times.

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Vittu and Eshwar Kumar posted a condolence

Saturday, February 5, 2022

We were very sorry to hear of Dennis' passing. We have very fond memories of his basketball coaching days. He had a tremendously positive influence on all those he coached. Sue, all our thoughts are with you and the family. Our sincere sympathy and heartfelt condolences. Vittu and Eshwar Kumar

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Denise posted a condolence

Saturday, February 5, 2022

Where to begin, a little bit about basketball. Dennis and I coached basketball together on and off for about 12 years. The memories and stories we shared over the years are priceless. We had the same passion and love for coaching, although I was a Duke fan and followed Coach K style and Dennis was all about UNC Coach Dean Smith. Trying to get a Duke play in the game was near impossible! Once during a game, I got an inbound play in and we scored off of it, and Dennis just looked at me and said: Duke, eh!?" Sue and family, I am truly sorry for your loss. Dennis was a good friend. RIP buddy. Danny Aucoin, and Denise, Sarah, and Jared

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Jerry & Ethel Langlais posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

Dear Sue and family, We were so saddened to read of Dennis' passing. There were so many nice things said in the tributes that it would be difficult to add to them so we just hope all the love surrounds you and holds you now when you need it most. Our deepest sympathy and condolences. Jerry & Ethel Langlais

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Jeannie McKay posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

Dennis was my all time favourite neighbour!! I am so saddened to hear of his passing. He and Susan were so in love and you could see it every time he looked at her. I still have the towels they brought us back from down south!! Susan my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time

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Glen LeBlanc uploaded photo(s)

Friday, February 4, 2022

Dennis I know you are reading this and will be smiling when remembering the fun we had on our basketball trips. Too many funny stories to tell! Here is a picture of you and me enjoying the game and you and Chuck enjoying the Tarheels museum. I will never forget when you were standing court side during warmups and the ball bounced into your hands. You looked around for a few seconds and then checked where the three point line was. Instead you made a perfect pass to their guard. I still wish you took the shot. I am heart broken. I will miss you more than words can ever express. I will cherish these memories forever. You truly were a special father, husband and someone I admired. I can only hope to have a fraction of the impact you have had on people.

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Jules uploaded photo(s)

Friday, February 4, 2022

Dad was die hard Tarheels fan!!! I’m so glad he got to experience this.

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Carol and Wayne Weagle posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

THE LIVES OF THE WEAGLE FAMILY AND ROLLINS FAMILY HAVE BEEN INTERTWINED FOR OVER 50 YEARS. THE MANY WINTERS SHARED VACATIONING IN MEXICO AND PARTICIPATING IN NUMEROUS FAMILY OCCASIONS. BOTH FAMILIES HAVE CHERISHED THAT CLOSE RELATIONSHIP. WE REMEMBER DENNIS AS A MAN OF DEEP CONVICTION AND PURPOSE WHO DID NOT SUFFER FOOLS GLADLY. HE GAVE OF HIS TIME AND TALENT WILLINGLY WHETHER IT WAS COACHING JUNIOR AND HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL OR HELPING A NEIGHBOR IN NEED. WE REMEMBER HIS STORIES OF GROWING UP ON THE TOBIQUE .......AND DENNIS DID NOT MINCE WORDS. YOU KNEW WHERE HE STOOD ON ANY ISSUE OR SUBJECT AND HIS CAPTIVATING SENSE OF HUMOUR ALWAYS CAME THROUGH AS HE RELATED HIS STORIES. TO SUE, JULIE, PETER, DARREN AND THEIR FAMILIES WE WISH YOU PEACE AND COMFORT DURING THIS TIME OF SORROW AND SADNESS. WITH LOVE, WAYNE AND CAROL

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Chris Zelkovich posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

Sending our most heartfelt condolences to Susan and the rest of the Rollins family. We met Susan and Dennis in the Yucatan and have only fond memories of those times. Our most lasting memory of Dennis is his sense of humour and his ability to laugh at himself, whether it was killing the car battery in the supermercado parking lot at dawn or disastrously lifting too much weight in the Villas Wayak gym. He will be missed by all who ever met him. — Liz Primeau and Chris Zelkovich

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Brad Maxwell posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

My most sincere and heartfelt condolences for your loss. Although it's been 25 years since I have seen Dennis, I wanted to share with you that what this man did for me will never be forgotten. I played Basketball for Dennis during my Jr High School years. During those years, my father lost his battle to cancer. Although this is very unfortunate, the impact that Dennis had on me as a mentor and a friend cannot be overstated. He taught me a lot about life and a lot about what being a good man is all about. I am forever grateful for the time and the attention that he gave to me and so many other young people. Please take solace in knowing that this man has left a legacy and has made the world a better place.

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Jules Posted Feb 4, 2022 at 12:23 PM

Thank you so much for this. What a beautiful tribute to my dad. I’m sorry you lost your dad at such a young age. I was so blessed to have mine for 50 years.

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Pauline Gill posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

I can't express to you how sorry I am to hear of Dennis's passing. I just can't imagine your pain. I am so sorry. I still see him walking on the highway near San Bruno., faithfully every morning. He was the picture of health, and I wished many times I had the same conviction. I am so sorry Sue for you and your family. You were a couple so devoted to each other and liked by so many . I hope your grief is somewhat consoled knowing there are many of us who wish you peace and comfort at this time of grave sadness. Rest in peace, Dennis. Affectionately, Polly

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dbcredhook@gmail.com posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

Doug and I mourn and send our condolences. Countless times we sat in awe, watching Denny on his chaise lounge, reading, then turning over onto his side and falling asleep, for HOURS!. He seemed so peaceful. And, of course, our first CAESAR was made by Denny. And...always a bit jealous that he suffered no fools. If he did not want to engage..hre didn't.

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Barbara Thompson posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

To Sue and family, I am sorry to hear about Dennis. I want you to know that I am thinking of you. Dennis could also be an entertaining story teller and he shared many of them with us, especially in the early days of our "storm door dinner parties" in Chance Harbour. I send my sincere condolences. Barb Thompson Cottage Neighbour

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Natasha Thibodeau- Funeral Director uploaded photo(s)

Friday, February 4, 2022

Beautiful photo of the family.

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Bonnie Dunham posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

It is with a heavy heart and wonderful memories that I mourn the loss of your husband/father and my friend. I met Den and Susan when we were vacationing in Mexico. We spent many winters together there and I never saw Den without Susan or Susan without Den. They were a couple to be admired for their love and devotion for each other! How lucky they were to have found each other… And I so valued their friendship and inclusion of me when their family members were visiting! I am a Tar Heels fan…because of Den! I rarely miss a Tar Heels game… because of Den. He was a Tar Heels fan because he respected their coach and the values with which the coach led the team. I valued and respected Den for his morals/values! He ran every morning while in Mexico, despite the heat! When Julie came to visit them she accompanied him on his runs/walks! Oh how he loves his Julie! Whenever I hear someone mention a “Caesar” I remember the Caesars that Den served Susan and I while we floated in the pool outside of their villa. They were the best! Den will be missed by all of you and by many more whose lives he touched! I will miss his sense of humor and his friendship! Please know that I am as close as an email, a text or a phone call. I am sending each of you my love and my prayers as you move through these next months. With my love, Bonnie

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Jules Posted Feb 4, 2022 at 12:29 PM

Thank you Bonnie. It is all these wonderful memories that make me shift from my deep sadness to gratitude for all the good times. Both mom and dad always valued your friendship so much. Remember the FaceTime surprise we cooked up to let Dad know he was going to the Final Four? Priceless.

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Karen Scott posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

Sue, Peter, Darren and Julie, I am so sorry to hear of Dennis' passing. Many fond memories growing up in the old neighborhood. My deepest condolences to all of you at this difficult time. Karen (Cummins) Scott

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The family of Dennis Doyle Rollins uploaded a photo

Friday, February 4, 2022

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Jules uploaded photo(s)

Friday, February 4, 2022

Dad mentored so many young people. He was tough and demanded the work ethic on and off the court but always delivered a message with a sharp and witty humour. Here is a newspaper clipping honouring his amazing contribution to the KV area. Not only was he was he a rockstar coach, kid could play!! The second article is from his high school days. “Dennis Rollins also recorded one of the highest individual totals, sinking 77 points”. GOAT!!!

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Michael Belyea posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

Condolences to the Rollins family. Dennis was my coach for junior high school and one year of high school. I always appreciated his effort and humour. And what a good guy to mentor kids that long. He will be missed. Michael Belyea

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Andrew Belyea posted a condolence

Friday, February 4, 2022

So sorry to hear about Dennis he was a great coach ,person and role model for so many young men.. . To volunteer that long that intensely coaching , this town is forever grateful ......He was one of the good guys and we’ll be missed

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Chuck and Tammy Hartlen posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Hey Jules, Tammy and I were very saddened by the news of your dad's passing. As you know I was part of the motley crew that went to both the Final 4 game in New Orleans and was fortunate enough to be included in the North Carolina home game against Duke shortly thereafter. Well....where to begin..... One thing I will not forget was the permanent smile on your dad's face from the time we landed to the time we took off for home. The second thing I won't forget was totally getting schooled on US College basketball by your dad (and me being a 30 year fan myself) thinking I knew the game. Jules, we had such a time on those trips - man oh man! From recognizing every basketball coach by name in every restaurant we ate in (breakfast, lunch and dinner) to a "small" run in with the law for using a New Orleans police cruiser as a coaster for our "sodas" - we couldn't have had more fun! Strange though - he didn't seem to mind that I was a die hard Duke fan? Now I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that with Dennis I had one of those feelings that you get about someone sometimes. Jules, and you may want to sit down for this part, I think your dad may have been a closet Duke fan. The Tar Heels was just a front so he wouldn't have to endure all the grief us "Dukies" have to put up with. Or maybe.....he was just a really great guy! Either way .....may the memories of those long walks on the beach be with you forever. Please pass along our thoughts and prayers to everyone - we know how much your dad will be missed. chuck and tammy

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Jules Posted Feb 4, 2022 at 9:06 AM

Thank you so much for these amazing memories Chuck. The laughs and stories really help to ease this enormous pain we are feeling. Honestly those trips were bucket list experiences and he always used to tell me he couldn’t have experienced them with a better group of guys. He would tell me in detail what the Dean Smith auditorium sounded like when all the fans were slamming their feet and cheering. I also think he was escorted off the court by security when he snuck on to shoot a 3 pointer..

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Elizabeth Allison posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Our Den was a great guy and he will be sorely missed by Frank and me. A fond memory of Den was when our Julie was young and she would be doing something with her female cousins he would always come out with (Girls, Girls, Girls.) in his funny manner I will never forget that. Rest In Peace Den .

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Justin McCann posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Dear Rollins family. So sorry to hear about Dennis. My sincere condolences to all of you. I’d like to share a story about your dad. Of course you all know what an incredible coach he was and how he touched us all with his amazing talent on the court. As Julie has mentioned he was always joking around. We were on an away trip playing basketball and stopped to eat at a McDonald’s. I was standing behind him in line and we were a couple people from the counter. He looked up at the lady cashier , who was a somewhat bigger girl , and turned to me and said “ looks like she’s been eating too many Big Mac’s.”. The problem was he said it a little too loud and the cashier heard what he had said. The cashier wasn’t sure who had said it but Dennis was quick to assure her. He turned to me again and said “ Justin. That’s unexeptabke you should apologize”. I looked at the cashier with horror and apologized propmply. Dennis your gonna be missed!! Can’t wait to see you again on the big court up on high.

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Lorrie and Rick White posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Soo sorry for the passing of Dennis,our friend and neighbor.we are thinking of you,sue,jules,peter,and darren.

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Dianne and Eric Belyea posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

So sorry to hear of the passing of Dennis.Both of our boys played basketball for him and we have a lot of wonderful memories. He was a wonderful coach with a great sense of humour.

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Mark McCann posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Hi Rollins Family: I was so sorry to hear about Dennis's passing. He taught me a lot and he was always my favorite coach. My condolences to you all. He will be certainly be missed by me and all who knew him.

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Rose and Butch McCann posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Sue and family- was sad to hear about the death of Dennis, he was very well thought of by all who knew him especially the kids he coached in basketball including my boys, our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this terrible time.

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Julie LeBlanc uploaded photo(s)

Thursday, February 3, 2022

"Hey Pops" "Is that my little darling?" That was literally how we started every phone conversation. I read a quote the other day about how everyone should have at least one person that "delights in your existence" ~this is the best way to describe how my father made me feel every day of life. My heart is in a million bits and I'm not sure what I will do without my biggest fan. A single post cannot begin to capture the essence of this incredible man- loyal husband (58 years), Coach (volunteered with youth basketball for 35 years!!), avid sportsman fan and jokester extraordinaire. I will still be talking to you dad, my God we had some good chats on our long walks in Mexico. I will still need your guidance so please send me signs so I know I'm not just rambling on to myself. I will be toasting you with every Tarheels win. You are the absolute GOAT!! You can rest now my sweet dad. I was your Angel your entire life and now you are mine.

R

Randles Eileen posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

This Man's smile caught my attention.. He looks so familiar... As a school bus driver in the k.v. area I'm sure we likely have crossed paths.. Especially when basketball coaching was part of his life...we also know his close friend Chester Mullins very well...sending sympathy on your loss to his whole family..and Chester as well..from Eileen and Gary Randles..Quispamsis n.b.

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Kim Lewis posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

I remember Dennis in my years working @ KVHS. He was a very, very nice man. So sorry for your loss. R.I.P. Dennis

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Madison uploaded photo(s)

Thursday, February 3, 2022

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Madison posted a condolence

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Heaven gained another great. Pap, I hope you are somewhere warm, watching college basketball in the great outdoors and listening to the best of country music. I am so grateful you were a part of my life and that I am lucky enough to call you my family. At 23 years old, I still felt the same excitement I did at age six, when I got to visit with my Nan and Pap. Thank you for welcoming Brett and I into your family with open arms and for always making me feel loved and special. I will forever cherish my memories of you. Your stories, playing basketball in the driveway, exploring the cottage, family holidays and our shared love of country music. I know you will be listening with me when a great song comes on. You have taught me so much about life and love. You were tough, funny, loving, and full of random facts. Truly the best of the best. I could not have asked for a better “bonus” grandfather. I hope I continue to make you proud each and everyday. Stay well and happy sweet Pap. Lots of love, Mads

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Julie uploaded photo(s)

Thursday, February 3, 2022

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The family of Dennis Doyle Rollins uploaded a photo

Thursday, February 3, 2022

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The family of Dennis Doyle Rollins uploaded a photo

Thursday, February 3, 2022

Dennis Doyle Rollins

1943 - 2022