Dennis Gary Maxwell, a long-time resident of the Grande Prairie area, passed away on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at the age of 80 years old.

Dennis was born in Wetaskiwin, AB, and lived in Hobbema, AB, for the first years of his life. In 1949, he moved with his parents to Grande Prairie and resided in this area for most of his life, settling in the Bezanson area.

Dennis was first and foremost a family man. He always made time for family, no matter how close or far away they were. He loved his community and was invested in knowing who everyone was and what they were up to. This transferred into his teaching and coaching career, getting to know each and every one of his students and athletes.

From an early age, Dennis was a talented athlete, spending much of his childhood playing baseball, basketball, and hockey. He often found himself being the captain of many of the teams he was a part of, always humble to take the part. Baseball was his true love, and he spent the majority of his sporting career as a third baseman.

Dennis was a beloved teacher and administrator in the Grande Prairie area for many years. He loved teaching junior high but was also often found trying to keep up with the younger grades as well. He was said to be a "tough but fair" teacher by many of his students, many often recalling him as their gym teacher making them run laps around the school. He coached basketball, volleyball, soccer, and baseball, ensuring the school's sports department was always in full swing. And for those who wanted a challenge off the court, he even started a chess club at Harry Balfour school. He will be fondly remembered by his former students, whom he had a lasting impact on through his coaching and teaching career.

Retirement was too short for Dennis, but he enjoyed many new adventures such as traveling to new places and investing many hours into his yard and gardens. Dennis loved to garden and spent countless hours expanding his flower beds and greenhouses to grow the biggest and best flowers and vegetables.

Dennis had a strong faith and was a long-time member of the Bezanson Community Church.

Dennis is survived by his wife Sandra; his children: Tom, Rudy (Allison), Brad (Mikaela), and Amber (Sara); as well as granddaughters Maria and Jenna.

He was predeceased by his parents Bill and Mart (nee Steinke); brother Reid; as well as two infant brothers.

A Celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 29, 2023, at 1:00pm, at Faith Lutheran Church in Grande Prairie (9610 108 Ave.). Interment to follow at North Kleskun Cemetery.

A Livestream of the service will be accessible 15 minutes prior to the service on Dennis’ obituary on Oliver’s Funeral Home website.