Dave, our beloved father, (Papa) will be dearly missed by his wife of 68 years, Junie; daughters Susan (Barry) Kowalchuk, Christie (John) Beck; grandchildren: Aleithia, Emma, Austin - Kris, Sylyanne (Bryson); brother Alexander (Carol) and their families, and many relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents Alexandra and Wasyl, brother Walter, sister-in-law Patricia, and nephew Kenny.
Dave's life was a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and love. Dave grew up as a gifted athlete, and his dream was to play professional hockey. At age 16, he left home to chase his goal, where he played junior hockey with the Moosejaw Canucks. Dave's professional hockey career took him to numerous locations including Omaha, Penticton, Spokane, and Saskatoon where he met the love of his life, June Reed.
As his family grew, with the arrival of daughters Susie and Christie, Dave hung up his very promising professional hockey career to focus on building a life for his family. He and his brother Wally bought a grocery store in Boyle, Alberta, and later, Dave partnered with his Uncle, Nestor Tkachuk, and opened a store in Athabasca – Super-A-Foods.
Though his hockey career ended, his love for the sport didn't. He coached hockey, played baseball, golfed (3 hole-in-ones), and played tennis. Upon retirement, he drove the Zamboni at the local ice arena, watching with joy as the next generation of hockey players skated onto the ice.
However, it was his grandkids, Austin, Aleithia, and Emma, who brought him immense joy. He would attend hockey games, soccer matches, nature walks, and didn't miss a dance recital, beaming with pride as they grew and thrived.
Throughout his life, Dave shared many adventures with Junie, traveling the world and teeing off on exotic golf courses. As he celebrated his 90th birthday, he looked back on a life well lived, filled with love, laughter, and memories that brought him joy.
Dave was a humble, modest, committed family man, community member, and loyal friend who loved sports and lived his best life.
In lieu of flowers, Dave requested that those who wish to remember him perform a random act of kindness.
A celebration of life will be announced in April of 2026.
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