David Ralph Canning

It is with great sadness that we share with you that David passed away peacefully surrounded by family and in the kind care of those at Oceanside, Peace Arch Hospital. He will be lovingly remembered by his family, the devoted husband of Elaine Canning, father of Janice and Julie (David), brother of Christopher (Mary), grandfather of Ryan and Alexander, uncle of Christine (Fraser) and David (Emily), and great uncle of Teddy.

David was born in Ottawa, Ontario, the son of Valerie and Ralph Canning. He lived in Regina, Saskatchewan, until he joined the Royal Canadian Mounted Police on January 4, 1961. Over a 35-year career with the RCMP, his highly respected service spanned all aspects of the Force included highly specialized areas of detachment policing, traffic, firearms forensics, and administration and personnel. He served the RCMP across Canada including postings in British Columbia, Ontario and Newfoundland. He retired with the Commissioned rank of Superintendent, as the Assistant Administration and Personnel Officer for British Columbia, in 1996.

Following his retirement, David operated his own business, FAI Laboratory (West), specializing in forensic firearms examination.

He had an adventurous spirit, loved to travel and was known for his quick wit and sense of humour. No one could tell a story like David. He loved the outdoors and very often with his brother, father and extended friends and family found hunting and fishing adventures that reflected his true love of Canada. He was also an avid swimmer loving the water and other team sports throughout his life.

He regularly gave back to the community as an active volunteer. He was never too busy to help neighbours, family and friends in their time of need. Most recently, he volunteered with the Delta Hospital Auxiliary Thrift Shop.

He was a loving, devoted, passionate, bright and infectiously funny man who will be lovingly remembered by his wife and deeply missed by all.