Born in Madras, India, Denise spent her early years in Darjeeling prior to her family’s move back to England where she met her husband Alfred “Nick“ Thurston. Her early life in the Tibetan foothills led to her life-long appreciation of diverse cultures and travel.

After the war Denise and Nick travelled extensively, spending several years in Argentina and West Africa, before immigrating to Canada where they continued to enjoy travelling throughout North America, the Arctic, Galapagos Islands, Egypt, Europe and Asia.

Denise's love of animals led to her become a veterinary assistant where she learned to groom dogs, eventually setting up her own dog grooming business, the "Poodle Clipper", where she enjoyed the company of dogs (and their owners). After her retirement Denise found her passion for painting and crafts and was a long-time volunteer at her condo participating in the art and craft clubs and helping to organize events.

She passed away surrounded by family and friends, on her own terms, as was her desire. She is sadly missed by her two sons and their families - Paul and Wendy; Clive and Anne and their two daughters Victoria and Natasha.

A celebration of life to be held on January 9, 2019 at Simple Alternative, Mississauga. Visitation 1 PM, Service 2 PM.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter, P. O. Box 141, Station B, Etobicoke, M9W 5K9 or Sleeping Children Around the World, 28 Pinehurst Crescent, Toronto, M9A 3A6.