Peacefully at home in Ottawa, surrounded by family, on Monday, June 22nd, 2020, just shy of his 88th birthday, our beloved father died of metastatic prostate cancer.
Born in Southampton England in 1932, son of Stanley Budd Hockey and Ethel Hockey (nee Stephenson). Steadfast older brother to Rosemary. Loving husband of Pauline Margaret Hockey (deceased). Faithful companion to Anne Wang. Adored father of Frances (Gord) Kolonko, Mandy Brady, and Tim (Lana) Hockey. Cherished Grandfather of Devin (Emily), Allie (Sean), Kyle (Sarah), Stephen, Matt, and Ethan; treasured Great Grandfather of Leo, Brooke, and Ivy; valued brother-in-law to several, loving uncle to many more nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews in the UK and Australia, and dear friend to many. He will be immeasurably missed by all who knew and loved him.
A proud immigrant to Canada in the 50's in order to "provide a better future for his family", he quickly gave back to his adopted home - "teaching others" was a theme woven throughout his life. Never one to waste time, his breadth of interests, skills and hobbies was endless.
Intellectual. Scientist. Humanist. Philosopher. Teacher. Vice-Principal. Civil Servant. Management Consultant. Pianist. Hobby Farmer. Author. Home Builder. World Traveller. Craftsman. Beekeeper. Keen Observer. Innovator.
A modern day Renaissance Man. The ultimate Gentleman - kind and learned, impressive to all, yet intimidating to none.
A career that defied categorization, as remarkable as it was varied. He was as fueled by working with his hands (there was almost nothing he couldn't fix) as he was exploring the "big questions" of the universe. His sense of humour, quick wit and easy laugh were a reflection of his joy in living.
He left this life as he lived it. On his own terms...and with great calm and dignity. Our special thanks to Dr Genevieve Casey and the MAiD Network. As a scientist first and foremost, he asked that donations in lieu of flowers should be made to the Cancer Research Society (https://www.crs-src.ca/en).
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date when friends and family can safely gather to remember him. Arrangements entrusted to Beechwood Cemetery.
Digital Guestbook
Susan Jarrett
Rob Kent
deepest condolences to the family on your loss; was blessed to learn what I could from David, a true gentlemen, explorer and original "just do it" person.
Robert Barclay
Very sorry for your loss. Such a kind and gentle human being. Feel very privileged to have been able to call him Uncle David. X
Frank and Carole Cammack
I've known David since I was 12, when my sister Pauline first brought him home to meet her family. I've been his admirer ever since, tinged with a hint of envy. Love from both of us to all of you.
Barry Murray
Met Dave in the Hospital, Civic. Talked his ear off. He was a gentleman and let me ramble. More fool he... that just encouraged more outlandish ideas and concepts from me... but he did listen carefully and never made me feel he was not interested. Sharp, to the end. Only way to go. By Dave.
Margaret and Peter Kasurak
David always invited us and our sons, Andrew, Christopher and David to come and pick apples in the fall. We all loved to visit David and Pauline and to enjoy their wonderful company and great conversations. The boys had fun picking the apples and playing in the water. These are very fond memories for all of us.
Kathy McKeddie
So sorry he had to go. I’m sure he knows how loved he was. Your family was lucky to have him in your life and I know you will miss him tremendously.
Dear Mandy my heart, thoughts and prayers are with you during this extremely difficult time. My sincere condolences to you and your family. God Bless.