Major (Retired) Dennis Secord Clement passed away peacefully on March 19th, 2021 at the age of 73. Dennis leaves behind his loving wife of 47 years, Sylvia Smith, his daughter Sarah (Ron) and son Ian (Sacha). He will be dearly remembered by his siblings; Brad, Brett (Linda Douglas-Clement), Cheryl Stevenson and numerous nieces/nephews and in-laws . He was predeceased by his parents Herbert and Betty, along with sisters Sandy and Kim. At Den’s request, no memorial service will be held. A private interment will take place in the National Military Cemetery of Canada later. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Ottawa Humane Society, Wounded Warriors Canada or the Ottawa/Renfrew Dementia Society
Dennis was about service. He joined the military as Naval Reservist while in university and had many callouts supporting the Canadian Forces (CF). In Halifax, NS, he met his wife and decided to join the Regular Force, switching from Navy to Army to become an Armour Officer. He loved his Petawawa regimental service with the 8th Canadian Hussars (Princess Louise’s) as well as other adventures and travels. When he was posted to National Defence Headquarters Ottawa, he began his operational support duty. He helped plan Canada’s peacekeeping efforts, (Bosnia, Rwanda, Haiti, Afghanistan etc) plus many more critical disaster operations at home and abroad. After his release, he continued his mission in much the same way as a public servant.
Personal highlights of Den’s military service included the Worthington Sword award during training, a peacekeeping tour with his regiment in Cyprus, reconnoiter trips to many locations to assess the upcoming contribution needs of the CF, direct assistance to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as the military liaison for the CF support of drug interdictions, the awarding of the Queen’s Jubilee medal and travelling as the CF Military Liaison Officer during the Canada wide tour of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip in 2002.
Dennis loved his family deeply devoting much time to their inclusion in his life. Concern for their welfare was paramount. Camping trips, support for his children’s school and community activities extensive horseback riding lessons/shows and numerous other shared family experiences are valuable memories of a life well lived.
In 2012, Den was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. As his illness progressed, it was evident that he was still with the CF as he defended his fellow residents/friends from “threats” and addressed their “security” concerns. Physically and mentally, he suffered many challenges and losses for ten years but subsequently passed peacefully to continue his mission in the afterlife.
There are so many “thanks” that must be acknowledged as Den and his family travelled the Alzheimer journey together. From the diagnostic medical staff at the Queensway Carleton Hospital, the Carp Medical Centre and the Bruyère Memory Program, we moved to Day Away Programs held at the Carefor Health and Community Services and the Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre and then to the OMNI long term care home of Garden Terrace. Subsequently, this was followed by admittance to The Ottawa Hospital (Civic Campus), the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and the Special Behaviour Support Unit at the Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre for the most effective treatment of confrontational Alzheimer’s symptoms. The Ottawa Police Service had helped with several of these manifestations in the past. Finally, there was a return to Garden Terrace until Dennis needed the Regional Palliative Consultation Team who ensured that he passed without pain or anxiety at the Queensway Carleton Hospital. The care provided by all these professionals was excellent, enduring and patient/family centered despite shortage of resources, staffing issues and pandemic conditions.
Bravo Zulu is a Navy nautical statement often used to convey that a task has been “well done”. This expression applies to all our friends, family, and professional staff we encountered on our journey. You ensured that our entire family was cared for in a resilient, loving, supportive and compassionate manner. There is no way we can sufficiently thank you but please note, you have our heartfelt gratitude, forever.
Digital Guestbook
Scotty (Allan) Alexander
Don and Clare Craig
Sylvia, those of us who knew and worked with Dennis respected and admired his great love for his Regiment and family. He was an inspiration to us all. We would like to offer you and your family our deepest and most sincere condolences.
Brian and Jackie Jackson
Jackie and I are saddened to learn of Dennis's passing. I enjoyed serving with Dennis during our time together with the Hussars and I was always pleased with our chance encounters during my visits to NDHQ. We offer our deepest condolences.
Christopher Davis
Sylvia, I am so deeply saddened to hear of Dennis’ passing. Dennis and I shared many wonderful experiences together. I was present when he was awarded the Worthington Sword which he richly deserved - a true officer and gentleman. Gail and I offer our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Lydia and Ron Steeves
Heartfelt condolences to you Sylvia and to the family. Rest In Peace Dennis.
Greg and Bonnie Taylor
Sylvia - so saddened to hear of Dennis' passing and the difficult journey you have shared these past 10 years. We will always remember him as a wonderful man and a truly professional officer. Stay safe.
Paul Crober
So sorry to hear this Sylvia. It has been awhile and we have been separated from many folks by making our home on the left coast but I always have very fond memories of Dennis sharing a Ferret in Petawawa with me when he was between Armour officer phases in training. I recall his slightly cynical approach to all things emanating from NDHQ and am glad he had a chance to rectify the issues while he was there. I did not know about the Alzheimer’s. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
David Beale
I served many years with Major Clement with the 8CH in Petawawa. A respected soldier. Stand easy!
Heather Anderson
Sarah and Ian, I was saddened to learn of your father’s struggles and his passing. Along with the sadness and grief, remember the good times and all that he taught you . He was so proud of both of you. Mrs A
PS Ian, I remember how much you looked up to your father and wanted to follow in his footsteps. Your parents were wonderful role models for you and Sarah.
Doug Harrison
I learned of the passing of Dennis with much sadness. He was the epitome of an officer and a gentleman. He was someone you could always count on and a person you would like to have on your "right flank" during an operation. Loyal, intelligent. filled with common sense, dedicated, and ever polite, he left his personal mark on many soldiers. I grieve his passing along with his family. I know he has gone to a good place and I look forward to seeing him again in our Valhalla. God has blessed his life and will continue to bless his family. He was a true soldier!
Dear Sylvia, My deepest condolences on your loss of Dennis. As a fellow serving Officer, we shared many adventures together and during those somewhat trying times Dennis always maintained that steady professionalism and leadership. He will be remembered. Scotty