Dennis Michael Tobin

Dennis Tobin passed away peacefully at Peterborough Regional Health Centre on January 11, 2026, at the age of 78.

Dennis was predeceased by his beloved parents, Jim and Nina Tobin; his wife, Eleanor (Ellie) Stewart; and his best buddy and constant companion, Tob. When Tob crossed over the Rainbow Bridge, Dennis lost a big part of his heart, and the bond they shared remained unbreakable.

He is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Mary Ann (Doug) Little and Cindy (Dale) Fawcett. Dennis will be deeply missed by his nieces and nephews: Russ (Lauren), Heather (Scott), Amy (Dan), and Josh, as well as by several great-nieces and great-nephews who brought him much joy.

Born and raised in Peterborough, Dennis carried his hometown pride wherever life took him. In the 1970s, he moved to Winnipeg, where he made lifelong friends, before later settling in Vancouver. In the 1980s, he returned home to Peterborough, a place that always felt closest to his heart.

Dennis had a passion for life and a talent for turning everyday moments into memorable ones. He was always up for a game of cards—euchre, cribbage, poker, or anything else—and was often the first to suggest a game after a big family dinner. Some might even have called him a card shark.

An accomplished dart player, Dennis was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion and several dart leagues, traveling across Ontario to compete in tournaments. His shelf of trophies stands as a testament to his skill and competitive spirit. He also enjoyed golf, frequently rounding out a foursome with his cousins and enjoying courses throughout the area.

Fishing was another favorite pastime. Living on the river provided the perfect setting for an early morning cast or a peaceful way to end the day, whether alone or with one of his many fishing buddies.

A devoted sports fan, Dennis loved watching hockey and football and closely followed the Toronto Blue Jays, committing an impressive array of stats to memory. Music was a lifelong passion, and he always had a collection on hand—whatever genre caught his interest at the time—eager to share it with anyone who would listen. If there was music playing, Dennis was often one of the first on the dance floor and one of the last to leave.

Dennis also loved good food and even better company. He would never turn down a dinner invitation, especially if it involved his mom’s incomparable pasta with sauce, accompanied by a huge platter of mouth-watering meatballs, Italian sausage and pork hock—or, after her passing, his sister’s version, which ran a very close second. He enjoyed the food almost as much as the time spent together.

Known for his great sense of humor, Dennis was always quick to share the latest joke he’d heard, bringing laughter wherever he went.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Emergency Room and Palliative Care staff at Peterborough Regional Health Centre. Their compassion, kindness, and dedication went above and beyond, providing Dennis with comfort, dignity, and exceptional care, while ensuring his wishes were respected during his final days.

As per Dennis’s wishes, cremation will take place, and a small family interment will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation and/or the Canadian Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.

Dennis will be remembered for his warmth, his laughter, his love of games and music, and the many lives he touched.