DENNIS GARY EIRIKSON

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DENNIS GARY EIRIKSON

March 25, 1946 - April 13, 2026

It is with heartfelt sadness that our family announces the passing of Dennis Gary Eirikson, beloved husband, father, papa, brother, uncle, and cousin, on April 13, 2026, at the age of 80 years.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Rolanda Eirikson; his four children, Graham Eirikson (three grandchildren, Mckenna, Paige and Ty); Denisa (Andrew) Baxter (two grandchildren, Anna and Joshua); Alana-Dawn Eirikson; and Laura (Mike) Tonopa (two grandchildren, William and Emily). Also surviving him are his sister, Dorothy (Russell) Schlamp (Cheryl and Lynda); Jill Eirikson, and Jesse Eirikson, along with extended family members. Dennis was predeceased by his brother, Jim Eirikson, sister-in-law, Brenda, and niece, Ingrid.

Dennis was born of Icelandic descent on March 25, 1946, in Eriksdale, MB. Raised on a farm and mink ranch outside of Lundar, he grew up surrounded by a close-knit family and cherished his many aunts, uncles, and cousins who were an important part of his life. Dennis went on to pursue higher education, earning degrees at the University of Winnipeg, Brandon University, and a Master’s Degree in Education and Law from the University of Manitoba. It was during these years that Dennis met and married Rolanda, beginning their family life together. He was a devoted husband and a great father, and his family remained at the center of his life.

Over a career spanning more than 40 years, Dennis made significant contributions to education across Manitoba, and internationally. He served in Holland, Miami, Winnipeg, Brandon, and Virden, where he was District Superintendent at the Fort La Bosse School Division; and later worked with the Manitoba Department of Education before establishing his own company, EIR Consulting. A highlight of Dennis’ career was his international work developing English programs in the UAE, Oman, Turkey, and Korea. He was widely respected for his compassion, kindness, humour, and dedication to students and educators alike.

Dennis cherished time with family and friends. He enjoyed golf, curling, fishing, travelling, and attending sporting events. Summers in Victoria Beach were especially meaningful, and after retiring there in 2007, he remained active in the community through St. Michaels’ Church and in fundraising for the new Victoria Beach Community Center. In 2018 he and Rolanda moved to Calgary to be closer to family, where he enjoyed time spent with his children and grandchildren.

Dennis was a good listener, a trusted advisor; he loved helping people, and sharing a laugh. He will be remembered by his family, friends, and community members for his integrity, his quiet strength, and the care he showed to those around him.

A private family service will be held. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Parkinson Association of Alberta, www.parkinsonassociation.ca, or to a charity of your choice.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Dennis’ family at www.MHFH.com.

As published in Brandon Sun, Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 25, 2026