Obituary: R. Denis McGhee

R. Denis McGhee 1927 ~ 2006 "A Gentle Lad" Reginald Denis McGhee, beloved father, brother and friend, passed away on April 11, 2006. The son of Reginald Leonard McGhee and Ann McWilliam McGhee, Denis was born June 30, 1927, in Liverpool, England. The family immigrated to the United States in July, 1949. Denis was drafted into the United States Army in November, 1950, and served in Korea. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the Korean Service Medal and the Combat Infantryman Badge. He was wounded in action on May 27, 1951, and given an honorable medical discharge in October, 1952. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans. On May 27, 2004, he proudly became a citizen of the United States. Denis retired from Waterworks Equipment Company, following 31 years of loyal service. He loved to fish and was an avid soccer fan. He especially loved a good Irish jig! He was a kind and gentle man, with a warm and generous heart. He enjoyed gathering family and friends around his table, for a delightful meal of rissoles, hand-mashed potatoes, mushy peas and, of course, his famous rice pudding, as only he could make. Denis married Patricia Townson on July 9, 1954. They later separated. He is survived by his daughter, Terri McGhee; son, Steven McGhee; sister and brother-in-law, Irene and Cliff Wiesenberg; loving companion, Else Yelton; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. Denis is also survived by many loving and devoted friends including Duncan and Sandy McDonald. The family extends sincere gratitude to the physicians and staff of 2 South ICU and the Pastoral Care Department at St. Mark's Hospital. The family is especially appreciative of ICU nurse Rick Rambo, for his compassionate and tender care of Denis. Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 17, 2006, at 12:00 noon at Garner Funeral Home, 1001 11th Avenue. A viewing will be held one hour prior to services. Interment at Salt Lake City Cemetery, with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the charity of your choice, in honor of Denis. Denis, those who love you have comfort in knowing you are surrounded by the peace and love of God and your beloved mum and dad.