Published September 2026
In early June, two former Working Centre board members held their 90th birthday party at the Rink in the Park in Waterloo. Roman Dubinski and Dennis Eaton were long time friends and neighbours and were also Working Centre board members serving 10 year terms at different times between the years 1996 – 2015. Their sons and daughters all told loving stories of the family life that their fathers had created.
The stories reinforced The Working Centre’s good fortune to have had Roman and Dennis as long term board members who had offered their time and talents to support TWC’s mission in a similar way – listening, being practically involved and using good judgement.
Sadly, Dennis died on July 15, 2026, a little more than a month after his 90th birthday celebration. Dennis’ life was a kaleidoscope of place, work and people. He was a mining engineer, university administrator and independent management consultant. His varied work experience was the lens from which he offered advice and strategy to The Working Centre Board. He freely and humbly offered his vast knowledge and experience for building community.
Dennis always showed interest in each person who entered his sphere including amazing care providers and friends at the West Hill Retirement Facility. At his big 90 event in June, Dennis said it best – purpose is in valuing each other in good times and in hard times. He led a life of justice from start to finish, enmeshed in family, community and discovery. His advice? Sing Monty Python’s “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” it helps when the heart hurts.
