Denis Leighton Whyte

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Denis Leighton Whyte, who passed away on February 18, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Denis displayed exceptional musical ability from an early age. As a boy, he sang with the renowned Robert Mitchell Boys Choir in Hollywood, California, an experience that helped shape his lifelong devotion to music and performance.

Denis pursued extensive musical training across Canada. In 1952 he received a scholarship to the Conservatoire de musique du Québec in Montreal, where he studied vocal performance and repertoire. During these formative years, he performed widely in musical theatre, often in leading roles, and appeared as a baritone soloist in major oratorio and opera presentations, as well as on radio and television.

He began his professional career in Montreal as a music educator and choral director. He taught with the Protestant School Board of Greater Montreal and later with the South Shore Protestant Regional School Board, serving as Director of Music and Head of Related Arts. His choirs achieved notable success, including producing a recording in collaboration with the McGill University Martlet Choir. Denis also conducted several prominent community choirs and ensembles during this period. In 1962, he met Margalo, the love of his life, beginning a partnership that would bring him enduring joy and companionship for the rest of his years.

In addition to his musical leadership, Denis pursued advanced education throughout his career, earning degrees in arts and education, including a Bachelor of Arts from Queen’s University and graduate studies in Music Education at Temple University in Philadelphia.

Returning to Vancouver in 1975, Denis continued his life’s work as an organist, choir director, and educator. He taught choir at John Oliver Secondary School, where he inspired generations of students and built strong music programs. He also founded the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir, creating a lasting cultural and musical legacy in the community.

Outside of his professional life, Denis embraced many personal passions. An enthusiastic boater, he especially enjoyed time on the water at the Delta Yacht Club with his wife. He was also a sports fan who followed tennis, soccer, and hockey with interest. During his teaching years, summers were spent at the family cottage in the Thousand Islands, a place of rest, laughter, and treasured memories. Upon retirement, Denis and his wife shared a love of travel, visiting destinations including France, Australia, and Hawaii.

Denis will be remembered for his remarkable musical accomplishments, his dedication to his students and singers, and the warmth and encouragement he shared so generously. His legacy lives on in the choirs he built, the voices he shaped, and the countless lives enriched by his music.

Above all, Denis treasured time with his wife, Margalo, and his children, Colin, Irena (Warren), Lianne, and Malcolm (Tasha), and his grandchildren Spencer, Nathan, Luke, Malaika, Cameron, and Matthew, who brought him immense pride and happiness.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Memorial service to be held at Hamilton Harron Funeral Home - 5390 Fraser Street, Vancouver, BC on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Live streaming link will be provided at a future date.