Dennis Revel (Dick) Machin passed away quietly at his home on January 18th, 2016. Born on June 10, 1925 he was the youngest son of Percy and Mabel (nee Gurney) Machin. The Machin family was one of the first settlers to the Comox Valley, their homestead was for many years the most northerly settlement on the “Colonization Road” which was to later become the Island Highway.
At the age of 17 Dennis joined the Royal Canadian Air Force and after 33 missions as an Air Gunner with Bomber Command, he was promoted to Pilot Officer and returned to the family homestead. After a brief career in the bush as a chocker man and chaser, he went on to join the BC Police force, which took him to Burnaby, Creston, Grand Forks and Alert Bay. Another career change took him to the University Fire Hall in Vancouver where he met Rachel, his life mate of 66 years plus. Shortly after their marriage they chose to come back to the family homestead where they would raise their five boys. Dennis worked as a Heavy Equipment Operator at CFB Comox until he retired. As well as continuing to farm, he was a member of the Masonic lodge for many years and was a past district deputy Grand Master. He also was a 35 year member of the Royal Canadian Legion. Dad became an avid gardener during his retirement and became quite the tomato grower!
He is pre-deceased by his wife Rachel, his brothers Linton & George as well as his grandson Ben. He is lovingly remembered by his sons Richard (Rebekka), Roderick (Debbie), Bob (Jeanne), Ray (Denise) and Bill (Sue); his grandchildren Michelle (Richard), Tara (Ryan), Dan (Ashley), Fred (Nycole) and Kathryn; his Great-Grandchildren Andrew, Sophia and Mathew; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A private memorial will be held at a later date. The family wishes to thank Toneff Funeral Services for their care and compassion during this difficult time.