June 6, 1950 – May 10, 2025
It is with broken hearts and profound sadness that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Dennis Rinaldi Sr. on the morning of Saturday, May 10, 2025, in the comfort of his own home. Though officially attributed to a heart attack, his family firmly believes he passed from a broken heart—grieving deeply the loss of his beloved sons, Jeffery (February 2022) and Dennis Jr. (April 2024).
Dennis is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of 49 years, Carol Rinaldi (Mann). Their love remained as strong as the day they met—undeniably soulmates. Dennis will be forever loved and remembered by his daughter Natasha Rinaldi (Ashley Fernandez), his cherished granddaughters Allie Thiffault (Noah Fuselli), Emma Thiffault (River Burch), and his daughter-in-law Brianna Thiffault. When his granddaughters were born, Dennis proudly took on the name “Grandpa”—a role he cherished with all his heart. His eyes lit up around Emma and Allie, and nothing brought him more joy than their laughter, their hugs, and the pride he felt watching them grow. He will also be fondly remembered by many cousins, extended family, and dear friends.
He is now reunited in eternal peace with his two sons, his parents Cardinal and Isabelle Rinaldi, his grandparents Anna and Tony Chiverelli, his grandparents Mike and Beatrice Rinaldi, his mother-in-law Rose Mann, his brother-in-law Gary Mann, his sister-in-law Vicky Mann, his brother-in-law Bobby Mann, as well as many other friends and family members who went before him, all of whom will welcome him with love into their arms. Dennis spent his childhood living above Mike’s Lunch on Gore Street, surrounded by the warmth of a large extended family. Though an only child, his life was rich with the company of cousins, aunties, uncles, and friends who were always visiting. In an era without cell phones or internet, social gatherings were in person and frequent—always filled with homemade food, laughter, and storytelling. His parents, Isabelle and Cardy, raised him with a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and respect—values that would shape the rest of his life. Every evening, a homemade meal was lovingly served at the dinner table, reinforcing the importance of family time and tradition. Their home, though modest, was rich in love, and the kind of simple joy that stays with you forever.
One of Dennis’s fondest memories from his childhood was the big pasta meals shared at his Nana’s home every Sunday night. These meals were a treasured time of family togetherness, where laughter and stories filled the air, and plates were always overflowing with delicious food. Dennis spoke of these Sundays often. It was clear these moments shaped him deeply, and his grandparents played an important role in his life.
The 1960s were a time of adventure for Dennis. As a teenager and young adult, he found his rhythm playing bass guitar in the band Children of the Dawn. Eventually, his curiosity and love for exploration led him to leave home and travel the world, collecting stories, experiences, and wisdom that would later define the compassionate, open-hearted man so many knew and loved. Dennis also developed a love for classic cars, inspired by his grandfather Mike, who always drove a new black vehicle. This passion continued into adulthood when he proudly bought a Thunderbird. His children fondly recall evening pajama rides for ice cream in the T-Bird when they were young.
In the early 1970s, Dennis worked as a bouncer at the Water Tower, where fate introduced him to Carol, a waitress who would soon become his lifelong love. Their romance blossomed quickly. Within a year, they were expecting their first child, Natasha, and soon after welcomed their son Dennis Jr., followed four years later by Jeffery. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support—a legacy that continues to live on. Dennis had a wonderful sense of humour and a knack for finding the light in any situation. He was always ready with a clever remark or a funny story, often making Carol laugh even in the most ordinary moments. His laughter was contagious, and his ability to bring joy to others was one of the many gifts that made him so special.
To know Dennis was to know warmth, humility, and sincerity. He was a man of honour, deeply respected for his kindness, and someone who made everyone around him feel important and welcome. A third-generation owner of Mike’s Lunch on Gore Street, Dennis left an indelible mark on the community. His famous cheeseburgers and macaroni and cheese are still fondly remembered among Saulites, and his generosity—especially his refusal to turn away anyone in need of a meal—spoke volumes of his character. His quiet but enduring faith in God was a guiding light throughout his life.
Dennis also had a passion for baseball and spent many years on the field playing first base as number 44. His children lovingly remember cheering him on from the sidelines, and just last year he watched with pride as his granddaughter Allie played on the same Strathclair field. He was a loyal fan of the Detroit Red Wings and the New York Yankees, often engaging in light-hearted debates with his father, Cardy, who always rooted for the rival teams.
Dennis loved summer most of all—spending time at Batchawana Bay, cruising with the top down in his Jeep, picnicking at Bellevue Park, sitting out at the Soo Locks or Echo Bay, boating on Lake Superior, or enjoying a BBQ on a hot weekend. These moments were always shared with family, always hand in hand with his wife, and always with a smile.
A private family service was held. Arrangements entrusted to Northwood Funeral Home Cremation and Reception Centre (942 Great Northern Rd, 705-945-7758).
If inclined, memorial donations to SOYA (Save Our Young Adults) would be greatly appreciated, in honour of Dennis’s wishes.
Rest in peace, our dear “Grandpa Dennis”. You will be missed beyond words.
The Broken Chain (Author Unknown)
We knew little that morning that
God was going to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly,
In death we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
You did not go alone.
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
You left us peaceful memories,
Your love is still our guide.
And though we cannot see you,
You are always at our side.
Our family chain is broken,
And nothing seems the same.
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.