McKENZIE, Dean Morrison
A kid from the village; the jazz poet.
Dean McKenzie, 72, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 4, 2013, at the University of Alberta Hospital.
Dean was born in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, on June 15, 1940, the son of the late Earl and Irene McKenzie (nee: Dean). A move to Hubbard, Saskatchewan as a boy led to his great fondness for the prairies, as expressed in much of his writing. He earned his degree in Education from the University of Alberta in 1963 and, as a teacher at M.E. LaZerte for 25 years, inspired countless students until he retired in 1996.
Known among Edmonton's arts community as "The Jazz Poet," Dean shared his poetry in many of the city's venues. His writing has been featured in books, CDs, public radio and award-winning short films. The muse and a guitar accompanied him through life.
He was predeceased by his parents, brother- in-law Bryan Kujaneck, and many relatives and friends.
Dean will forever remain in the hearts of his wife Elana Aaserud of St. Albert, Alberta; his former wife Bea McKenzie; his daughter Trish (Adrien) Lemoine and son Todd McKenzie; step-daughter Kara Aaserud and step-son Graeme Aaserud; sisters Maureen and Linda McKenzie; seven grandchildren Skye, Jasper, Jake, Chelsea, Kate, Evan and Everleigh; many cousins, nephews, nieces; constant companions Falkor, Fax and Focus; and countless friends, poets, artists, musicians, teachers and students.
A Celebration of his life will be held Friday, February 22, 2013 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Chateau Louis Hotel & Conference Centre at 11727 Kingsway Avenue N.W. in the Grand Ballroom.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Kidney Foundation of Canada at 202, 11227 Jasper Avenue N.W., Edmonton, AB, T5K 0L5.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
64 Entries
September 2, 2013
Jim Good
Just saw this. I was looking for Dean (or Mr McKenzie as I called him) to participate in a project I'm working on. I'm so thankful for all he gave to me. The best.
June 7, 2013
Sorry we were not aware of Dean's passing until we read the spring edition of the New Trail magazine. Our condolences to Dean's family and friends. Our acquaintance with Dean began in 1958, Moose Jaw Teacher's College. Over the years we reconnected with Dean at various musical performances and many of his poetry readings. We will miss Dean's upbeat exuberance and his positive attitude toward people. Dean had a real knack for making people feel good about themselves. Fortunately his poetry is left for posterity and we can continue to enjoy his works for years to come. We will miss you Dean. Our good old Saskatchewan buddy.
Marg & Glenn Sharples
March 6, 2013
Darren de Boer
Thank you for making English 30 the best class of high school. I will always cherish the arguments over Eddie Van Halen's talent, your harmonic Big Ben chime and the beauty you brought to English class, through unconventional but unforgettable teaching. You rock Mr. McKenzie.
Darren de Boer
February 28, 2013
Farial Ali
May you forever rest in peace Mr.McKenzie. I was so fortunate to have had you as my art teacher in your last year of teaching at ME LaZerte. Your words of encouragement and praise will never be forgotten, they will be cherished forever. You were so kind to your students and I'm thankful you were part of my journey as the shy little artist trying to make something of herself. I made something of myself, and I have you to thank for helping me believe in myself.
February 27, 2013
Ruth Anderson Donovan
February 26, 2013
Just learned of Dean's passing from The Stroll of Poets Society newsletter on-line- when I go to cry, there I see Dean's image, smiling back with his irrepressible grin, and I am reminded that Spirit goes on- and we can build on what he gave us. Bon Voyage to a dear, outgoing fellow teacher, singer, and poet, who enriched my experience when I taught art and English at a feeder school to M.E. Lazerte in the 1980's( Londonderry JHS), and whose performances I always enjoyed at The Stroll of Poets events- often along with others in his poetic musicians group. Best regards and a hug to his loved ones- both family and friends- Dean's love of Life prompts one to build on joy, and to continue to emulate the loving, generous, poetic nature and prairie spirit he expressed so well.
February 23, 2013
Venita O'Callaghan (Hayes)
Mr. McKenzie was the only English teacher I had @ Lazerte - had him for English 10, 20 & 30! That was in the late 70's and back in the day we laughed that that hadn't happened yet to any student he had taught. Mr. McKenzie was a funny, crazy, nut of a teacher...very passionate about poetry, always a story or idea to share and discuss or a song to play/sing on his guitar. He taught us more than just English! In the classroom McKenzie was truly himself - so laid back and comfortable to be around yet held high expectations of his students and their work. He took the time to really know each of us and we all loved him. I know he will be truly missed by his family & friends. RIP McKenzie!
February 23, 2013
Sharon Graham
Mr. McKenzie, you were my favorite Teacher, and so often I thought of you and wondered how you were.. I meant to track you down so that I could tell you how much you impacted my life with your positivity and light.. Thanks for your guidance and presence, your humour and goodness, and for letting me guard the art supplies in High School.. I miss you already
February 23, 2013
Mr. McKenzie was my Art teacher in 1993 and he will always be one of the teachers I will never forget. Not only in Art but in the halls of M.E. LaZerte and outside of the school he was very loved by all who knew him. He took the time to get to know us, and encourage us with whatever path we were interested in. You will be missed and never forgotten.
Jolene (Baker)
February 23, 2013
Terry Smith
R.I.P Mr Mckenzie. One of the greatest teachers I ever had.
February 22, 2013
Adell Nyberg
I will never forget Dean's sense of humor, his infectious laugh, and his amazing creativity when we wrote multiple choice items together for the English 33 diploma exams in the late l980s and early 1990s. His poetry and guitar performances always enlivened whatever tasks we were assigned.
February 22, 2013
Dean was a shining light in the working days at M.E.LaZerte....for me as a member of the Support Staff. And as my husband was a railroader from Saskatchewan...and played guitar..there was never shortage of words. Dean will be remembered.
February 21, 2013
Karen Wesa (nee Lehman)
In 1991/2 you were our teacher at M.E. Lazerte. We LOVED you! We have many great memories of you, especially when you caught us skipping class out back and came outside to give us such inspirational wisdom. I was only 15 then. When I got married in 2008 you were mentioned in my maid of honours speech, as you were forever ingrained in our minds, and hearts. Before I went to M.E. my brother 3 years ahead of me spoke fondly of you and you exceeded my expectations of the coolest teacher ever.
You touched so many of us and we will never forget you Mr. Mckenzie.
May you rest in peace.
My most sincere condolences to your family and loved ones.
February 21, 2013
Jaime Gonek
Though he was not a teacher of mine specifically I remember him well as being a unique spirit. As an adult, I worked at the U of A hospital and crossed paths with him again as a staff member. He remembered me and was still the kind soul I knew years before. Sad to hear of his passing.
February 21, 2013
So sad to hear of Dean's passing - thinking of you Linda and Maureen - it's always hard to let someone so close, go. Love you gals! Warmest thoughts are with you! Brenda and Lew
February 21, 2013
Gord Flatt
His influence on his students was significant. He will be remembered as a friend, as well as a teacher.
February 21, 2013
Vi Gerbrandt
... as a sister from the same prairies who appreciates so much your poetry and contributions to our world ... I salute you, Dean. Most sincere apologies to the family and friends of this most honored and remembered poet and citizen of the world.
February 21, 2013
Sandi Ledingham
Dean, we've mused much over the past years, about ' art' something we both shared deeply....that has come along way from the days back in Colgate Saskatchewan where you were my grade 8 teacher. I have so appreciated the full circle of our discourse on the who and whats of an artist. Your poem URN, will live on with me resonating such insight and clarity, of the potter spinning her pots. Keep singing Dean ! With much respect. Sandi
February 21, 2013
Mike Downham
Mr. Mackenzie taught me art and English at M.E.LaZerte, he inspired me greatly, I remember going to a few of your poetry readings after I graduated and I still called you Mr. Mackenzie after several times you told me to call you Dean! And out of respect for you I could never call you Dean. You will never be forgotten and forever have my respect!
February 20, 2013
Murray Bryck
Friends from hometown originations. What does one say about a man whose persona was that of a wordsmith regarding an array of venues including prose, poetry, music and other art forms. From humble beginnings at Hubbard, Sask, came a talent, which both communicated and celebrated the virtues and soul of the Hinterland, reminiscing of past times of growing up in the Prairie landscape and the interface and transcendence to the Metropolis. His vocabulary was extensive, his wit was legendary, and his laughter was unique. Will miss our sociological musings and critiques of small town railway stations and grain elevators. A memory forever - at one of the Hubbard reunions, Dean dressed with a western poncho walking down the street with guitar in hand singing one of his ballads. Hubbard has lost one of its Ambassadors!
February 20, 2013
Wes Hanson
Dean Mackenzie was my teacher back in 1959 in Bromhead, Sask. I'm sure it was his first teaching job. Some of his students were as old as he was! Dean boarded, with Mrs. O'Donnel. His room was upstairs. He would open his window early in the morning and play a wake-up call on his bugle. Dean also took his bugle to the Estevan Bruin hockey games, which would cause a little hooting among the fans. Many years later, through Dean's sister, Linda, we connected again via telephone. I had many wonderful conversations with Dean as we reminisced about the Bromhead days. Dean had a great memory, and he had a lasting impact on us Bromhead prairie dogs. Peace be with you Dean.
February 20, 2013
thank you so much for encouraging my muse in high school. 20 years later this poet is still writing and painting! until we meet again,
ryan baier.
February 20, 2013
Some of my earliest memories include Dean. He was a brilliant, memorable man and I know that he will be missed by all who knew him. Our condolences to all those who loved Dean.
Elaine and Al
February 20, 2013
"Write a poem to a friend.........do it as well as you can. You will get an enormous reward. You will have created something." K Vonnegut
love from The McDades
February 20, 2013
Rhiannon (Beeson) Sidor
So sorry to hear of your passing. You made grade 12 english entertaining. My deepest condolences to the family, he will be greatly missed.
February 19, 2013
Dawn Stronski
You were as inspiring as you were entertaining, a great teacher & a wonderful man.
May your eternal journey be peaceful.
February 19, 2013
Linda Garcia
I knew Dean through Linda, his sister. My condolances to his family. He was such a character, full of energy always....
February 19, 2013
Elaine & Victor
Wow. Pages and pages of fond memories. A testament to his commanding presence. Quoting Shakespeare: "We shall never see his like again." A big space for you Elena, but also big memories to help fill that space.
February 18, 2013
My husband and I first met Dean through our neighbor and friend, Elana.
From the outset, Dean's joie de vivre was apparent. No way could you be around Dean and not feel the love. He lived each day to the fullest and saw beauty in the simplest of things.
Whenever adversity came his way, Dean handled it with grace and dignity. To complain was simply not in Dean's nature.
What we loved most about Dean was how he made you feel. He always greeted you with a smile, a twinkle in his eyes and he made you feel like you mattered. That was Dean's special gift to us all.
Our condolences go out to you Elana. Ron and I count ourselves among the lucky ones who knew and were touched by Dean. He was one in a million.
Elaine and Ron Chrapko, St. Albert, Alberta
February 18, 2013
Roger Dyck
So much talent. So many laughs and wonderful memories.
Peace Cuz!
Roger
February 18, 2013
Alice Major
To Dean's family -- Dean's death is such a loss to the writing community. We will miss him. I can only condole with you on your loss -- he will be remembered with affection and esteem.
February 18, 2013
Garry and Maureen Evans
Elana and family, we're so sorry to hear of Dean's passing. We have many fond memories of his laughter and sense of humor, his love for music and poetry and the occasional dram together. I can clearly recall a time listening to music in his basement 'music room' and the song "A Satisfied Mind' bringing a tear to his eye. He will be deeply missed!
February 17, 2013
dean and his guitar taught my little children a goodnight song Thanks JEAN MCKENZIE PRINCIPAL RIVERDALE.
February 16, 2013
Ardis Kolot
I received the best grade ever on a story I handed in to my teacher, Dean McKenzie, back in the 70s at M.E.LaZerte. After several contrived attempts (I realized later) at writing, which he wouldn't accept, he told me to write something I knew, something from my gut. And so I did. When I got it back, all he had written across the top was "Yes!". It has stayed with me all these years... it meant more to me than any letter or number grade he could have given... Dean taught me that to write, or do anything, you have to be yourself; you can't fake it. Real is good. Thank you Dean. You were one of the good ones.
February 16, 2013
Our deep, heartfelt sympathies to you Elana and to everyone in the McKenzie/Aaserud families... you are blessed to have the brilliantly beautiful Dean McKenzie watching over you (then and now). In fact, we all are.
It was an honor to collaborate and bring Dean's words to life in film. Like the celluloid used to capture Dean, his booming voice and those magnificent stories he crafted -- Dean McKenzie, The Jazz Poet, will live on for all of time.
Freestyle on, Dean!
With sympathies,
Michael Hamm & Kerrie Long
February 16, 2013
Valerie Pawlik
I was so sorry to hear of Dean's passing. I extend my deepest sympathy to you Elana, and hope that the memories of all the wonderful times you have had together will get you through this very difficult time.
February 16, 2013
Peter McNab
Dean's prodigious talent with words and music combined with his great joy in living his life was infectious. I never saw him unhappy.
Our thoughts are with Elana and all of Dean's family.
Peter McNab and Elana Scraba (Victoria)
February 16, 2013
Ian Rosenberger
Few teachers leave permanent memories upon their students but I remember more than one having had Dean as a teacher in 1986. Uniquely, he would often take time during class to speak "off the record" about art, ethics, politics and philosophy. Certainly not every student had the maturity to appreciate Dean's altruistic qualities then, but his mark has been left upon me as a testament.
I can remember him bringing his guitar into class and singing for us. While this in and of itself might not have been particularly memorable, I cannot forget the song. Did you know that the theme song from the popular television show MASH actually has lyrics? The title of the song is, "Suicide is Painless". What a bold song choice for him to sing to us,,, don't you think?
I lost track of Dean when I went to University but in retrospect I can imagine that he would have been a great guy to hang out with outside of school. I too spend a lot of time at jazz and blues clubs, reading poetry and philosophizing. Hearing him speak to me as an adult rather than as a student surely would have enriched my life even more.
I have enjoyed reading the comments from others about this exceptional man.
February 16, 2013
Ron and Rose Rosenberger
Elana, we are wishing you and your family a peaceful recovery from the sorrow you are feeling right now. Memories and time will help the healing. We have such fond memories of you and Dean being with us on our Hell's Babushkas rides and our most vivid memory of Dean is his performance at the talent show in the Lac La Biche hotel, dazzling all of us and particularly the locals with his music. Friends never lose their place in our hearts.
February 16, 2013
Wow Mr McKenzie.... I havent seen you in a long time. You were certainly one of the high school teachers I held in high regard. Likely it was your respect for me that made it easy to appreciate you! I always felt your connection with the students was much better than the others as you took the time to know us! You led us well, many of us turned out pretty good! Thanks for pointing the way and giving us the courage to set forth! God Speed
February 15, 2013
Kasara Dunn
Dean was my neighbour back in the 80's while living in the Kilkenny community. He was also one of my teachers at M.E. Lazerte. I'm not sure at what point during the time we knew each other,that he knew that I loved to sing and perform but once he knew, he was always SO supportive and encouraging. He was So much fun to be around. It was with Dean that I did my very first "paid gig" as a singer/performer. And after that, we did many more fun and unusual gig's together. Through the years we would meet time and time again through the musical community. He had a charisma, charm and warmth that was always a pleasure to be in the company of. He will be thought of and missed often. A huge loss for us but a wonderful addition to the heavens.
February 15, 2013
Bill Gowans
Elana...I am so sorry for your loss. Dean was a remarkable man with a wonderful sense of humour and a smile for everyone. It has been an honour to have been his colleague, friend and brother. Rest in peace old friend.....Bill
February 15, 2013
Cathy McRae
So many great memories Dean has left me. He will always be in my heart, and sadly missed. Love ya Cuz. Cheers!!!!
February 15, 2013
This was so nicely written. Our sincere sympathies and warm thoughts are with you, Trish..
Love Kelly Burk (Dean) and Family
February 15, 2013
Ron Holland
To the Family of Dean McKenzie:
This past Monday, early in the afternoon, I thought about Dean McKenzie. Then a few hours later, I was informed by a mutual friend that he had passed away.
I first met Dean on June 30, 1962 at Waskesiu Lake in Saskatchewan. Dean's teacher friends had assembled to celebrate the end of the school year and our group was looking for a campsite. Not surprisingly, Dean invited us to share some of their space. I have many fond memories of that weekend, the foremost being the Park Rangers searching for the musician who had the ability to play TWO bugles at once and only in the early morning hours. Thus began the Legend of Dean McKenzie.
I didn't expect to ever see Dean again but in the summer of 1967 I attended the wedding of my university roommate Dr. Carl Hawrish and there was Dean. That confirmed that a lot of great people came from Yorkton.
Sadly, our paths did not cross a lot over the years but I would hear new reports of something that Dean had accomplished.
At such a sad time, I pray for comfort for Dean's family. I also pray that reincarnation is a real phenomenon as the world needs a replacement for this one-of-a-kind man.
Sincere sympathy,
February 15, 2013
Karen Dawson
Mr.McKenzie was my high school guitar teacher in 1985-86. He was a wonderful teacher, mentor and philosopher. Rest in peace sir and keep playing that guitar!
February 15, 2013
Carol Pottruff
Mr McKenzie was my FAVORITE teacher at LaZerte. He made our English class, interesting and dramatic. May he rest with the Angels
February 15, 2013
We are sorry that Dean has left us. We were fortunate to have spent many hours with him over the years. These times were filled with laughter (both raucous and quiet) and celebration of the joy of life.
Con & Zak Sieben
February 15, 2013
Richard Davies
I will be speaking about Dean's poetry at the Celebration, but want to mention here also-- Dean's Gift of Vision as well as his great Gifts of Self and Humour.
February 15, 2013
Duane and Crystal Mills
Dean had so much to give to so many people. His humour and laugh were infectuous. Once you met him, you could never forget him.
Our deepest sympathies to Elana and family.
February 14, 2013
Dear Elana, Bea & Family
We are sorry to hear of your great loss. Dean was a very dear person to all who knew him. We offer our deepest sympathy to you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
~ Sylvia & Dennis Malloy
~ Cecile & Jerry Slywka
February 14, 2013
We will miss the one of the kind.Great friend,person,and a human being.Rest in Peace. Love Lauraine/Vic
February 14, 2013
Liz Harrison
Elana, I just received news of Dean's passing tonigth from Lucy Venekamp, a mutual friend that worked with Dean and myself at M.E.LaZerte.I am so sorry to hear of your loss --- Dean was a wonderful teacher whose smile lite the entire room! Many times he came to me with student work and sometimes a student in tow, saying, "Liz, you just have to see this..". My sincerest condolences are extended to you during this difficult time.
February 14, 2013
Doug Sparks
I was so sorry to hear of Deans passing. My thoughts go out to all of Dean's family and friends. I will always have fond memories of the night Dean wrote "Buffalo pound on sand" on the back of a paper bag, while sitting our kitchen table at the farm. He stomped on the terra.
February 14, 2013
Marilyn Hooper
I will never ever forget his performance of HOWL at the Strathcona Legion at a Sunday Brunch.
February 14, 2013
One of a kind good guy and to be missed,however we all have the memories of Dean. Peace Brother.
Larry Ure
February 14, 2013
Ken & Dianne Allan
Dear Elana,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our deepest sympathy at this sad time.
February 14, 2013
Doug Zimmerman
I have many fond memories of Dean, jamming with Pazzport at Ike & Iggies...epic, moving, insightful. Thanks for the memories. RIP.
Doug Zimmerman
February 14, 2013
Tara Benoit
Dean brought so much light to the Tuesday Night Jams back in the day. RIP Dean. I will howl for you.
February 14, 2013
Laurie Lanuke (Silisky)
Those whose flames burn brightest
kindle new fires in others.
So now, in a hundred hearths or more,
There is warmth and light and love.
To our great loss, we shall not look upon his like again.
"At your leisure", dear friend.
February 14, 2013
Bill & Stella Shewchuk
Dear Elana, Bea & Family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Dean was a very special person and he touched many lives. May he rest in peace and may the good Lord help you through this most difficult time.
With sincere sympathy
February 14, 2013
William Nichols
Thank you Dean for so many things
February 14, 2013
David Ure
So sorry to hear of Dean's passing. Our blessing go out to the family during this difficult time.
February 14, 2013
Connie & Ken Marshall
Elana, Ken and I are sorry to hear about Dean. We are in Arizona and were Skyping Harry Sutton and Linda Ewenson in Mazatlan when they told us the sad news. My younger sister was a student of Dean's at M. E. Lazerte, and of course Dean has been a larger than life personality touching on our lives for so many years. And he has been such a large part of your life. Our condolences to you, Elana. We are not home until March 8 so will miss the ceremony.
February 14, 2013
david watson
dean was wonderful person.my
sympathy to his family
Showing 1 - 64 of 64 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more