Great! I think the problem will be that while I can program the TV for a non-Sony brand, but the same technique won't work for the AVR... It seems in order to control the volume of my Denon, the power also is controlled. I don't believe the two can be separated but I'll make sure that is the case. But at least the TV power can be removed from the equation. I do have control via HDMI shut off.
But just avoiding the power button is OK. Glad to hear other buttons should wake the TiVo.
Thank you for your advice and time !