Dennis-O'Rourke-Obituary

Dennis G. "Denny" O'Rourke

Obituary

O'Rourke, Dennis G. "Denny" The most gentle soul has left us and we are so very, very sad. Dennis, age 66, died in his home surrounded by loved ones on August 20, 2006. Survived by his partner and best friend, Susan; son, Patrick; son, Tom (Merja); grandchildren, Jonaton and Anniina; son, Dan; brother, Mike (Sandy); niece, Kelly; Susan's ten lucky grandchildren. Denny, as he was known, was the owner of Cine Sound 2 for over thirty years. It was his second home. It wasn't a job for him, but a very enjoyable full-time hobby. Post production was his life's work. He was a problem solver, a skilled technician, a mentor, a friend, a jokester, a lover of life and people. He was always there to lend a helping hand. "If a problem couldn't be solved—then call Denny." He will be missed by all those who were lucky enough to be touched by his heart. Interment, Mount Calvary Cemetery, Lake Linden, Michigan, 11 AM Saturday, August 26. Memorials preferred to American Cancer Society or Make-A-Wish Foundation. A celebration of Denny's life will be held at a later date.
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.

Guest Book

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I can't believe it's been 17 years. I think of you every time I cross the lift bridge in Houghton. Your story about falling asleep up there the summer you worked on the bridge always make me smile. I have so many good memories.

As time goes by, thought of you never diminish. Miss you always.

I miss you today and always. You are in our hearts forever.

I recall working with Denny at WLOL AM & FM where I worked in the 1970s, variously, as an announcer and board operator. After that, I'd interview him for Pro Sound News on his projects. I wrote several stories about him. I recall him at Cine Sound 2 as well where I brought in a couple of projects when I was in the AV production business. He was very smart and had a great sense of humor. So many good people in the radio and production businesses have passed away. But their memories last on....

I first saw Denny mix on the short film "Foreclosure"- where he effortlessly blended music and elements at the end of a long road for all of us. Later he helped me finish a couple of projects when I struck out on my own. Such artistry and always in such good humor. You always felt secure when your film was in his hands. Rest in Peace, Denny.

DEN --WE MISS YOU EVEN MORE AS THE TIME PASSES. YOU WERE SUCH AN IMPORTANT PERSON IN THE LIFE OF SO MANY FAMILIES. YOUR LOVE WAS A GIFT I WILL KEEP DEEP IN MY SOUL. YOUR CHILDREN, YOUR FRIENDS IN AND OUT OF THE BUSINESS, ALL THE PEOPLE YOU SHARED YOUR HEART WITH ARE STILL FEELING THE DEEP PAIN OF YOUR LOSS. SUE AND I OFTEN TALK "DENNY STORIES". SHE IS SO VERY LOST WITHOUT YOU. WATCH OVER HER AS I KNOW YOU ARE. I WILL ESPECIALLY MISS YOU IN THE U.P. "CARVING AT THE TABLE, PLAYING THE...

To my dear, dear friend... Dennis O'..
You gave so much of yourself... to so many folks.... in so many ways.... I first met you while you were working at Mark Lee and I was your 3M sales rep back in good ole 1971. You should have thrown us out as your supplier..for reasons..(our secret) and which you did. However, you had the presence of mind to re-consider... and give me another chance.... I will always appreciate and remember this gesture... and it created a wonderful...

I've worked with Denny from about 1975. We trekked from Omaha carrying our mag tracks and waiting for Denny to bring our productions to life. Ask Dennis a question? You better be ready for an answer. Man, he was knowledgeable and creative! He always treated us "out of town" guys as long lost friends. What a tremendous guy. When he described the laser procedure for zapping his brain tumor it sounded like he intended to "tweak" the equipment. You'll be missed!

Close your eyes, picture yourself leaning over an old country well with pebble in hand and ear to the well and then drop the stone. Did you hear that? Did you? What a cool sound! Did you hear that echo? One of the many sounds which Den could produce with tongue, cheek and index finger. So, you can all join my cousin Den and our family at that well at any time to listen to that beautiful sound... God rest his soul