Dennis McCain Alwood Reid passed away March 2, 2026 at the age of 93 years young surrounded by family and close friends. Dennis was born in Port Alberni B.C. on December 20, 1932. Dennis married Lyla Bioletti on his birthday December 20, 1959. His first daughter Margaret Rose was born Sept 10, 1960. It was during this marriage, in 1959 that Dennis started Den’s Repair Shop. With no special training, Dennis drove to Edmonton and challenged his Red Seal Exam. He received a mark above 90% and his vehicle repair business was born. Dennis went on to marry Verna Rose Montgomery on April 23, 1985. Verna brought two small sons, James Reid and Anthony Reid to the marriage whom Dennis promptly adopted. Shortly after, came Valerie, Bobbi and Shauna. Margaret lived with her mother but stayed in contact with Dennis throughout his lifetime.

Dennis led a long and colourful life, always with a grin and a cheerful word making friends wherever he went. His life was filled with adventure and life-long learning. His passion was restoring old cars and he owned a large number over the years. If he couldn’t get a part for this or that, he would often go to the shop and create the required piece. His early jobs included hauling cream, working in -71-degree weather, moving houses and he trained for a year in the ministry which turned out not to be his cup of tea. He acted in Local Theatre Groups and could sing like a canary. Within Den’s Repair in Bowden, he had an apprenticeship program and many young men earned their licence though him. One of his favourite memories was attending swap meets in Portland. His kindness was often shown by thoughtful gestures. He was known for his eulogies which here always well done. He could always be counted on to drive his current project in the local parades around the area. Dennis was predeceased by his wife Verna, both his boys Jim and Tony, parents Elizabeth Miller Alwood and “Mac” Winfield McCain Alwood, and his adopted parents Bob and Rose Reid. He is survived by 4 daughters, Margaret Whalley, Valerie Lorette (Dave), Bobbi Delaval and Shauna Olesen (Torben), 13 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. We will miss Dennis with his quick smile and sense of humour. It was indeed 93 years well lived.

A Celebration of Life is planned for the last Sunday in August at the acreage.

Condolences to Dennis’ family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Dennis McCain Alwood Reid” in the subject line.

 Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944

• Date : 2026-03-17
• Location : Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service, Red Deer AB "Locally Owned"